The pursuit of knowledge and personal agency is today nearly universally considered every woman's birthright. However, in Pakistan, these fundamental rights are undermined by an entrenched patriarchal mindset. The societal struggle for women to achieve empowerment is not without impediments. Misinterpreted religious pretexts, prevailing societal values, outdated cultural norms rooted in patriarchy, and a misplaced concept of 'honour' —particularly in conservative societies like the tribal belt—are but a fraction of the numerous obstacles. Empowered women are perceived as threats to the social and religious order, and their financial independence and individual autonomy are dismissed as incompatible with cultural expectations. Despite progressive feminist discourse from some educated individuals, these very people often maintain dual standards, restricting the women in their households under the guise of protection or moral duty.
The hypocrisy of men who champion women's rights on social media and in public discourses, while treating the women in their households differently, stems from insecurity rather than a genuine concern for women's well-being. To understand this contradiction, it is essential to deconstruct the notion of honour (ghairat), which has long been a central tenet of male identity in Pakistani society. It dictates women's behaviour and places disproportionate responsibility on them to uphold family honour, specifically through restricted mobility, dress, and economic activity. Women's financial empowerment, however, directly threatens this male-centric honour system, leading to resistance from those who fear losing control.
In patriarchal cultures, economic dependence on male family members has traditionally guaranteed female subordination. When women strive to break free from this financial dependence, men often feel their authority diminishing, triggering insecurity that fuels a desire to maintain the status quo and ensure women's continued reliance on them. This creates a vicious cycle of dependency and subservience. Women are relegated to domestic duties, with their value measured by their reproductive potential rather than their economic contribution. This flawed notion not only stifles women's personal growth but also hinders the country's potential for social and economic progress.
To dismantle the deeply rooted patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender inequality, fostering a cultural shift that embraces women's empowerment as a collective societal goal is crucial. First, reforms must begin at the family and social levels. Pakistani men should not perceive gender equality as a zero-sum game. Instead, they must learn to share power and position with the opposite gender, recognising that true equality benefits society as a whole. Dictating what women can do, when they can speak, where they can go, how they dress, or whom they meet undermines both human rights and the principles of fairness. By letting go of these outdated insecurities, society can move toward a more equitable and prosperous future.
As far as the notion of honour is concerned, it is paramount to recognise that true honour lies in standing up for justice and defending the oppressed. For women today, honour is about holding society accountable for the injustices they've faced and claiming their rightful place in decisions that impact their lives
Since education is the cornerstone of empowerment, it is crucial for parents and guardians to provide their daughters with the same educational opportunities as their sons. Too often, daughters are denied this right out of a misplaced fear that they might make immoral choices, while sons are hypocritically granted greater freedoms. An educated woman is far better equipped to make informed choices and assert her rights than one deprived of education. As far as the notion of honour is concerned, it is paramount to recognise that true honour lies in standing up for justice and defending the oppressed. For women today, honour is about holding society accountable for the injustices they've faced and claiming their rightful place in decisions that impact their lives and futures.
In addition to social reforms and education, financial independence is also a critical component of empowerment, and this transformation requires active participation from men and society at large. Financial freedom not only gives women the means to support themselves but also grants them autonomy over their lives and decisions. It enables women to contribute meaningfully to society, shifts the power dynamics in relationships, and fosters a rightful place and respect both at home and in public spheres. Financially empowered women are no longer controlled or coerced by those who hold economic power over them, leading to mutual respect in relationships, whether with a spouse, family members, or colleagues. In a rapidly progressing world, women who remain financially dependent will struggle to find their rightful place and will be left behind.
To foster true gender equality, men need to challenge patriarchal norms and understand that sharing financial and decision-making power benefits the entire household, not just women. Furthermore, society must invest in creating spaces and opportunities for women to become economically independent. This involves policy reforms, improved access to education, and supportive frameworks for women entrepreneurs. Laws promoting equal pay, ensuring inheritance rights, and providing access to financial services should be enforced to create a level playing field for women. Additionally, creating programs and opportunities for women's participation in business and leadership roles can shift the current power imbalance, allowing them to thrive.
The path to true gender equality in Pakistan will not be easy, but it is essential. Men's insecurities about empowered women, deeply rooted in cultural norms, must be challenged head-on. By addressing these insecurities and promoting financial independence, education, and legal reforms, Pakistan can begin to break down the barriers that keep women from realising their full potential. Empowering women isn't just about lifting half the population—it's about building a stronger, more equitable society for all.