Gender and Politics in Pakistan: Women’s Representation in Legislative Bodies

Abstract

This article examines the complex dynamics of women's political participation in Pakistan, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges. Despite constitutional provisions like reserved seats in the National and Provincial Assemblies, women remain underrepresented due to patriarchal norms, institutional barriers, and gendered violence. The study traces the historical context, from early leaders like Fatima Jinnah to milestones such as Benazir Bhutto's premiership and the 2002 Gender Reform Action Plan, while critiquing the tokenism of quota systems. Current data reveals disparities: women hold 26% of National Assembly seats (mostly reserved), yet only 6% win general elections, reflecting systemic inequities. Regional divides persist, with urban areas like Karachi showing higher participation than rural regions, where cultural and logistical obstacles dominate. The article underscores the transformative impact of women legislators, who champion gender-sensitive policies on education and health, yet face backlash from conservative factions. Civil society initiatives and international collaborations, such as UN Women’s leadership programs, have made strides in voter education and candidate training, but sustainability remains a concern. The study concludes with recommendations for legal reforms, party-level accountability, and grassroots mobilization to dismantle structural barriers and achieve substantive gender parity in Pakistani politics.

Keywords: Gender Politics, Women’s Representation, Pakistan, Legislative Bodies, Quota System, Patriarchy, Political Participation, Institutional Barriers, Civil Society, Electoral Reforms