- The United Nations report highlights a concerning trend in Pakistan, revealing that over 10 million women aged 35 and above are currently awaiting marriage, with ten million women above 35 in this situation.
- The report also notes that 22 million young boys and girls are waiting for marriage, indicating a significant challenge surrounding marriage in the country.
- Factors contributing to this trend include a shrinking pool of eligible marriage prospects, leading parents to consider alliances outside their familial tribes, and a stagnant female labour force participation rate, which has remained around 10 per cent in urban Pakistan for over two decades.
In Pakistan, a recent United Nations report has shed light on a concerning trend: more than 10 million women aged 35 and above are currently awaiting marriage. The report highlights that ten million women above 35 years old are in this situation, signalling a significant challenge surrounding marriage in the country. Additionally, the report notes that 22 million young boys and girls are also waiting for marriage.
The Challenges of Marriage in Pakistan
One of the key factors contributing to this trend is the shrinking pool of eligible marriage prospects. Parents, faced with limited options within their familial tribes, are increasingly open to alliances outside their immediate social circles. However, there is a growing reluctance to arrange marriages with individuals from different tribes, making it challenging to find suitable matches.
A contributing factor to this challenge is the stagnant female labour force participation (FLFP) rate in urban Pakistan, which has remained at around 10 per cent for over two decades. This is one of the lowest rates globally. Educated women face barriers to entering and sustaining employment, while those with lower levels of education encounter even greater limitations.
Limited Access to Education and Economic Opportunities lead to late Marriage
Several factors contribute to low FLFP rates. Many women drop out of school due to safety concerns or financial constraints, limiting their access to education and economic opportunities. Moreover, societal norms and familial expectations often discourage women from pursuing jobs outside the home, leading to a lack of awareness about available opportunities.
For those women who do enter the workforce, they often face low wages and the added burden of household responsibilities. These challenges create a cycle of limited opportunities for women in Pakistan, impacting their ability to pursue marriage and economic independence.
A Multi-faceted Approach is Required
Addressing these issues will require a multi-faceted approach, including efforts to increase female education, create more job opportunities for women, and challenge societal norms that restrict women’s choices. Empowering women to participate fully in society and the economy is not only a matter of gender equality but also essential for Pakistan’s social and economic development.
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Pakistan’s diverse landscape offers a wealth of opportunities for adventurous women to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a beginner looking for a new challenge, here are five exhilarating outdoor activities to try in Pakistan.
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