Pakistan’s social structures are considerably shaped by patriarchy. Patriarchal norms shape the social structure of Pakistan and assign men to be the primary decision makers and women to be subordinate to men both publicly and privately. Family structures and cultural expectations shape the way these patriarchal norms are practised, along with legal ambiguity, which creates systemic barriers to gender equality.
The Extent of Gender Inequity
Women in Pakistan face a number of restrictions in different spheres, such as; Education, employment, mobility and participation in politics. Although the literacy rate of women has improved over the past 20 years, it is still considerably lower than the literacy rate of men.
Fewer than 25% of women participate in the workforce, so many work informally or without pay. Cultural expectations in Pakistan pressure women to prioritise household responsibilities over their careers, limiting both their personal potential and the country’s economic growth.
Domestic and Social Effects
In addition to this Patriarchy leads to a high level of Domestic violence. Society’s acceptance of men’s authority over women normalises abuse and discourages reporting or prosecution. Social pressure often forces female victims to remain silent to protect family honour, which perpetuates the cycle of abuse and limits women’s autonomy
In addition to the limitations of women’s autonomy that occur within the home, patriarchal norms also impose restrictions upon the presence of women in public. Society often requires women to be accompanied by a male when attending university, going to work, or participating in social activities. As a result of this, women have less opportunity for social exposure, professional networking and making their own independent decision-making, and as a result women continue to be dependent on the men in their lives.
Barriers to Political and Institutional Participation
Patriarchy is evident in politics even when it’s not easy to spot. While female representation in legislatures is increased via quota systems the actual influence of women is often limited. Decision makers within political parties and at the local level are typically men. Women leaders suffer from societal judgement that men do not face. The gender based scrutiny also affects policy priorities, resource allocation and implementation of gender sensitive legislation
The effects of patriarchy are long-lasting in many ways.
- Economic Costs – By limiting women’s participation in the labour force to higher levels of productivity, economic development and overall the country suffers..
- Social Stagnation – The unequal treatment of women maintains many societal levels of social hierarchy, and reduces the innovative ability of a society as there will be a continuous lack of new and diverse voices.
- Human Rights Violations – Many women experience domestic violence and do not freely move around, nor do they have access to equal opportunities, all of which violate the basic human rights of individuals in our society.
- Inter-Generational Effects – Children who grow up in a patriarchal society learn to accept these particular norms as a given; therefore, they will continue the cycle of inequality.
The Way Forward
To address patriarchy, we need a multi-level approach: Legal reforms, Educational initiatives, Media Campaigns, and Community-based Awareness Programs. Educating individuals on equitable share of responsibilities within their homes, education for women, and enforcing the law regarding violence against women will begin to make a difference. Change will take time; however, one must tackle the status quo in order to create a better society and economy.
