Citizenship and Gender Equality in Pakistan: A Constitutional and International Law Perspective

Abstract

The research presented herein critically examines gender-based disparities embedded within Pakistan’s citizenship laws, with particular attention paid to Section 10 of the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951. Although the Constitution of Pakistan and its international legal commitments underscore equality, the legislative framework permits foreign wives of Pakistani men to acquire citizenship, yet it denies the same entitlement to foreign husbands of Pakistani women. Through a multifaceted exploration grounded in historical, legal, and international perspectives, the study unpacks the complexities that surround this gender-specific legal inconsistency. In highlighting this imbalance, especially as it persists in Section 10, the analysis identifies clear evidence of ongoing legal discrimination that warrants comprehensive evaluation and reform. By offering insights into the barriers imposed by current legal provisions, the research adds to the growing discourse on gender equity and human rights. Its conclusions are intended to support not only scholarly understanding but also to assist policymakers, legal professionals, and academics in aligning domestic law with international human rights norms—thereby advancing gender justice and the protection of core citizenship rights.