Pakistan's Gender Gap Index Hits Rock Bottom: Ranks 145 out of 146

In the latest Global Gender Gap Index by the World Economic Forum (WEF), Pakistan finds itself at the second-lowest position globally, ranked 145th out of 146 nations. 

This disheartening ranking, with only Sudan trailing behind, underscores a dire and worsening situation for women in Pakistan. 

The country's decline from the 142nd position last year highlights an urgent need for state and societal intervention to address the deep-seated gender disparities.

Women's rights activists have raised their voices, calling for a resolute commitment to redefining the roles assigned to women by Pakistani society and the government. 

The annual index evaluates gender parity across four critical dimensions: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. 

Leading nations in gender parity include Iceland, Finland, Norway, New Zealand, and Sweden, showcasing a stark contrast to Pakistan's persistent challenges.

"This year's dismal ranking is not an anomaly; Pakistan has consistently lagged in the index for over a decade," stated Bushra Khaliq, Executive Director of Women in Struggle for Empowerment (WISE). 

Her statement reflects the ongoing struggles faced by women in Pakistan to achieve gender equality.

A detailed analysis of Pakistan's rankings across different sectors reveals glaring disparities. 

In economic participation and opportunity, Pakistan ranks 143rd, marginally ahead of Bangladesh, which stands at 146th. 

In terms of educational attainment, Pakistan is placed at 139th, falling behind Bangladesh at 125th. 

The political empowerment category sees Pakistan at 112th, significantly trailing Bangladesh, which ranks 7th.

According to the WEF report, Pakistan's recent drop in the index is primarily due to setbacks in political empowerment, despite slight improvements in educational attainment. 

Gender disparities remain pronounced in the economic and political spheres, alongside persistent gaps in educational attainment and health outcomes.

Farah Zia, Director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, highlighted the challenges women face in mainstream politics. 

"Recent political manoeuvres have targeted women leaders and activists, undermining their role and impact," Zia lamented, citing incidents of targeted incarceration and legal obstacles. 

Despite a 33 per cent quota for women in parliament, genuine representation remains elusive for those not affiliated with influential political families or urban centers.

Bushra Khaliq acknowledged some progress in sectors like textiles and fashion but highlighted pervasive exploitation in the informal sector. 

"Women in Pakistan predominantly work in precarious conditions, limiting their economic empowerment," Khaliq remarked.

The health sector presents alarming statistics, with high maternal mortality rates and inadequate reproductive health services plaguing women across Pakistan. 

Educational barriers further compound gender disparities, with approximately 25 million out-of-school children, predominantly girls, lacking access to basic education.

Farah Zia underscored the impact of unchecked population growth on women's development, critiquing government policies that prioritise population-linked incentives over sustainable human development. 

"The lack of discourse on reproductive rights has profound implications for women's health, education, and economic participation," Zia emphasized.

Both Zia and Khaliq pointed to entrenched patriarchal norms and societal resistance, exemplified by contentious reactions to events like the Aurat March. 

"Society's resistance to women's rights exacerbates gender disparities," Zia stated, calling for concerted efforts to challenge and transform patriarchal mindsets.

In closing, activists urged robust commitments from the state and society to redefine women's roles and ensure gender parity. 

"Progressive steps are essential for integrating women into the socio-economic fabric of Pakistan," Zia asserted, advocating for comprehensive policy reforms and grassroots empowerment initiatives.

Critically appraising governmental departments' roles, Khaliq highlighted the need for improved data transparency and collaboration with international organisations. 

"Accurate data reporting is crucial for measuring progress and advocating for policy reforms," Khaliq emphasized, urging greater accountability and transparency.

As the global community grapples with persistent gender gaps, the WEF report underscores the imperative of inclusive economic policies and structural reforms to empower women fully. 

"Economic gender parity is not just a social justice issue but an economic imperative," the report concluded, urging governments to prioritize gender equality as a catalyst for sustainable development and innovation.

Pakistan's current standing in the Global Gender Gap Index is a clarion call for immediate and sustained action. 

Addressing gender disparities requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society, ensuring that women can contribute equally to the nation's growth and development.