Social Status of Women in Pakistan: Cracking the Glass Walls through a New Societal Contract

Abstract

Women in Pakistan are facing hardships in achieving equal rights and opportunities as to their male counterparts. Patriarchy has deeply entrenched in the Pakistani society; rendering women a marginalized group facing numerous challenges. Despite strides towards gender equality, the glass walls of social limitations and discrimination continue to hinder full participation of women in various aspects of societal performances and also restrict fullest utilization of their potentials. Qualitative and secondary research methods are employed, to uncover the multifaceted barriers hindering women's educational development in Pakistan. The critical review of existing literature provided the researchers with a complex landscape of social status of women in Pakistan; with a specific focus on the formidable barriers usually known as "glass walls". Education of women becomes a matter of concern where societal expectations clash with individual aspirations, limiting women's access to knowledge and opportunities. Employment opportunities are similarly curtailed, as traditional norms dictate rigid roles for women, hindering their economic independence. Moreover, the literature review explored how Pakistani women are forced to live according to the ideals set by the men of their households. This research concluded that the pervasive issue of honor phobia is deeply embedded in societal norms, and it emerges as a central theme- significantly shaping and compelling the lives of women in Pakistan. Cracking the glass walls that constrain women's lives in Pakistan requires a comprehensive approach. It involves changes to educational programs and system, economic policies, legal frameworks, and- most importantly- societal attitudes. This can be done only by embracing a new societal contract, which is built on equality, inclusivity, and respect for human rights and a contract that empowers all members of the society; including the women. The journey towards a truly equitable society will not be easy, but it is a necessary one for the long-term development and well-being of Pakistan.