Women’s Day is an interesting occasion for Pakistan since we belong to a culture that greatly respects women and their role in our lives.
But upon further scrutiny, it seems that respect is only extended to women who position themselves as lesser than their male counterparts.
This becomes especially concerning when you look at globally conducted research, since it’s carried out without national bias affecting interests it paints a clear picture of the true attitudes at play.
All of this comes together to create a very shallow Women’s Day celebration, which almost always undercuts the true value and potential of working women in Pakistan. With March right around the corner, let’s see if the gender gap in Pakistan has gotten any better.
Looking at the Numbers
Let’s start with the research since the numbers will help us understand Pakistan outside our bubbles.
First, let’s look into the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index. This is a report that’s meant to benchmark progress towards gender equality. It assesses equality along 4 metrics which are: economic opportunities, access to education, health and political leadership. For the 2023 report, Pakistan ranked 142 out of 146. Highlighting that women continue to be marginalized across the 4 metrics measured.
Also concerning were the results of the Ipsos Pakistan survey, if you go to page 32 you’re confronted with the statistic that 85% of Pakistanis agree that the main role of women in society is to be good wives and mothers.
Based on the findings of the Asian Development Bank, we can also find out that women in urban Pakistan often find themselves missing out on opportunities because of employer restrictions.
Back in July 2023, the Asia and the Pacific Policy Society shared their findings on women’s safety in Pakistan. Based on their sample, they concluded that 27% of women in Pakistan are victims of domestic or marital abuse. And only 51% of women felt that their communities were safe.
Does Women’s Day Mean Anything In Pakistan?
Yes and no. In the urban centres of the country, it’s a very important occasion that gets dedicated ad campaigns, sales, special episodes on TV, and the whole shebang. But all of it rings hollow when you consider that the gender wage gap is roughly 34% as of 2022.
The corporate side of Pakistan will hold Women’s Day parties, hand out gifts and encourage heartfelt speeches. But this doesn’t maximise the potential of the talented women that can be found in all sectors and all levels of seniority.
Due to the state of the gender gap in Pakistan, it becomes even more important to celebrate Women’s Day, but to do so with intention. Flattery or gifts can be nice but they aren’t a solution to societal flaws or institutional failings.
Celebrating With Intention
The most effective approach would be to celebrate women 365 days a year. Honouring women shouldn’t be restricted to one single day. Now how can an organization make the most of those days? It comes down to understanding the needs of women and the best way to support them as opposed to limiting them.
Flexibility for Working Mothers
This includes providing a daycare facility along with diaper-changing tables in bathrooms. Working mothers shouldn’t have to struggle with their professional and personal responsibilities.
It’s also necessary to implement programs that can help integrate mothers back into the workforce after the birth of their children. Many women are often discriminated against for taking a break after childbirth. That needs to change.
Rewarding Merit in the Workplace
Women often find themselves passed over for promotions and leadership opportunities in favour of men. It’s essential to root out all such biases in the workplace and provide an environment that fosters productivity.
Leadership Programs
Women make up less than 5% of senior managerial positions in Pakistan. Leadership programs are required to boost this number. Firstly, so that women can connect with their seniors in a professional environment. Secondly, so that they have every opportunity to be considered for promotions.
Actual Gifts
With the heavy stuff out of the way, it’s time to think about the fun part. The actual gifts for Women’s Day!
Based on everything mentioned in this article, it would generally be good to avoid any kind of stereotyping and instead opt for gifts that embody the essence of empowerment. Here are some ideas you can fall back on:
- Purchasing items from women-owned businesses
- Personalized mugs
- Gift cards so that they can buy what they want
- Chocolate gift boxes (Lals is a great option)
Stay tuned to WOW360.