Daily Times

Sir: Ever since the creation of Pakistan, women have played a considerable role in the development of society. Broadly categorised, women in Pakistan can be classified as housewives and working women. The role of women in general varies with class, rural-urban divide and region. Despite rising awareness, women in general have been subject to sexism and misogyny at some point in their life, Pakistan being a patriarchal society. As per 2011 census, 49.9 of the total population consists of women of working age; it is therefore essential for Pakistan to ensure equal job opportunities for women, so as to assure a speedy development in the country. For a progressive and prosperous Pakistan, it is essential that a general perception of society should be changed that considers women as subordinates to men. From Fatima Jinnah to Benazir Bhutto and Malala Yousafzai, women represent change in the socio-political dynamics of Pakistan. Let us not forget what Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan had said, “No nation can rise to the height of glory unless your women are side by side with you.” It is therefore time the state should take all the necessary steps to assure gender parity and women’s empowerment.

ANEELA AHMED
Lahore