Women’s Political Participation in Pakistan: Barriers, Developments, and the Road Ahead

Abstract

Women’s political participation in Pakistan remains constrained by entrenched patriarchal structures, socio-economic disparities, and institutional shortcomings, despite constitutional guarantees and international commitments to gender equality. This qualitative research, based solely on secondary data and analytical interpretation, explores the intersectional barriers that inhibit women’s full inclusion in Pakistan’s political processes. It assesses trends in female representation, the role of gender quotas, and the emerging influence of education, media, and technology in shaping participation. Drawing on feminist political theory and the concept of political opportunity structures, the study highlights how symbolic representation often replaces substantive empowerment. It concludes that progress requires not only legal reforms but also cultural transformation, educational investment, and strengthened institutional accountability to achieve genuine gender parity in politics.