As Pakistan braces for its upcoming elections in February, concerns and complexities surround the democratic process. From the absence of officially launched political campaigns, to security issues in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the challenges are wide ranging. Among these, a crucial focus emerges on the role of women in electoral politics, amplifying the need for inclusivity and gender equality.
Women in Pakistan remain significantly underrepresented in policy measures. The late twentieth century witnessed the growing participation and representation of women in the political space. Data gathered in collaboration with the International Parliamentary Union (IPU), UN Women, and Pakistan’s National Commission on Status of Women highlights voids in women’s voices in political decision making. Despite this, Pakistan has been on an upward trajectory with the integration and inclusion of women in the political realm.
In 2018, the country had approximately 106 million registered voters, with 59.22 million men and 46.73 million women. The gender gap increased to 12.72 million in the following year, with 62.55 million men and 49.83 million women. However, in 2022, there was a significant reduction in the gender gap, as registered male voters decreased to 66.40 million while female voters increased to 55.78 million. The most recent data reveals a further decrease in the gender gap to 10.03 million, with 68.50 million men (54%) and 58.47 million women (46%) registered to vote.
The recent allocation of $61 million to the Election Commission of Pakistan highlights the financial commitment to conduct polling. However, security conditions in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa present formidable challenges due to the surge in separatist and militant attacks. The decision to hold elections is not only influenced by public pressure, civil society expectations, and market demands but also by the imperative to address gender disparities in the electoral landscape.
With the youth comprising 57.1% of registered voters, their influence on the electoral outcome is undeniable. Political parties must tailor their campaigns to address the challenges and needs of young adults and professionals, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the democratic future of Pakistan.
Punjab's pivotal role in Pakistan's political dynamics, coupled with Imran Khan's significant influence, underscores the intricate balance of power. As Punjab represents the wealthiest and most populous province, excluding Imran Khan, the current popular leader, could potentially reshape the democratic process. The question lingers: can a new regime gain credibility and legitimacy as a true representation of the people, especially for women whose participation remains a critical concern?
Amidst the political turbulence, the role of women in the upcoming elections is gaining prominence. A recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) underscores Pakistan's severe voter gender gap, emphasizing the need for increased efforts to address this imbalance. Additionally, Dawn News reported on barriers hindering women's political participation, shedding light on cultural and societal challenges ("Women's participation in elections: Overcoming barriers," Dawn News, March 11, 2018).
In this context, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) serves as a critical international framework. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979, CEDAW outlines fundamental rights and freedoms for women globally. Pakistan's commitment to CEDAW since 1996 obligates the nation to align its legislation and policies with the convention's principles.
CEDAW explicitly recognizes the importance of women's political participation and representation, calling for measures to ensure equal participation in electoral activities. The challenges highlighted by HRW and Dawn News align with CEDAW's emphasis on addressing gender disparities and promoting women's active involvement in political processes.
With the youth comprising 57.1% of registered voters, their influence on the electoral outcome is undeniable. Political parties must tailor their campaigns to address the challenges and needs of young adults and professionals, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the democratic future of Pakistan.
Political parties are the safeguards of democracy. The burden to protect and advance is the mandate that allows them to build alliances, reforms and to bring issues to policy agendas. Key political players, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), are actively forming alliances to secure a favorable position in the elections. The battle for Punjab is particularly crucial, with political parties facing challenges in forming alliances and accusations of military establishment support surfacing. Will these major political parties be able to rise above their differences and build coalitions for a transformative and effective governance in Pakistan?
As Pakistan navigates the uncertain terrain of its upcoming elections, the role of women, youth, and the dynamics of political alliances will shape the nation's future. International observers closely watch these elections, seeking reassurances of fair and transparent processes.
Ensuring the integrity of the electoral process, the Election Commission of Pakistan has established comprehensive election laws ("Election Laws," Election Commission of Pakistan). These laws, guided by CEDAW principles, play a crucial role in maintaining transparency and fairness. Additionally, the provision for election petitions offers a legal avenue to address irregularities and disputes that may arise.
As Pakistan navigates the uncertain terrain of its upcoming elections, the role of women, youth, and the dynamics of political alliances will shape the nation's future. International observers closely watch these elections, seeking reassurances of fair and transparent processes. The outcome will not only impact the economic and political stability of Pakistan but will also reflect the nation's commitment to democratic values and gender equality. By addressing the gender gap in voting, dismantling cultural barriers, and aligning with international frameworks like CEDAW, Pakistan can foster a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Given the backdrop of historical, institutional, external shocks, and social dimensions influencing decision-making, power dynamics, and policy mandates in Pakistan, it becomes crucial to examine the coordinated efforts, or lack thereof, among the highest echelons of decision-making elites. This examination should focus on the allocation of reserved seats in national and provincial assemblies and the participation of women leaders in elections. In the midst of internal political struggles, strategic manipulation from the top, and external shocks, the question arises: will the commitment to women's political inclusion and equity regress in the 2024 elections? Alternatively, could the challenging circumstances, marked by rising domestic political unrest, ethnic conflicts, and intense political polarization, serve as a catalyst to propel and involve women leaders in mainstream decision-making processes?