Challenges Faced To Women Parliamentarians In The Legislative Process Of Pakistan

Abstract

Legislation is the prime function of the parliamentarians and women have a key role in parliamentary procedures and practices. Although, Pakistan had a women’s Prime Minister throughout its political history many other important posts have been held by women. In Pakistan, numerous legislatures were made by women legislators in various governments. These laws addressed significant issues and problems. Due to different social and economic growth of the urban and ruler areas, women’s status is heterogeneous in Pakistan. In our country, women comprise 53% of the population but their political participation is still disproportionate to males due to patriarchal society and gender inequality. This study investigated the obstacles that were faced by these women parliamentarians in legislative and political participation which enhances the situation where women were not represented in political affairs, in the light of expert opinion on political representatives, and political activists. This research is based on a qualitative method. Politicians, lawyers, academicians, and journalists were interviewed for qualitative analysis. The study concludes that ideological, cultural, representation, economic, and patriarchal mindsets are the main factors that hinder women's role in parliament.  The findings of the study can be used effectively to increase women's role by bringing awareness at the local level and making appropriate policies at the national level. The gaps in implementations, interpretation, and reporting that have been based are a clear indication that there is a need for continued education capacity building within important institutions and communities.