Economic empowerment of women has long been considered a key component in structural interventions to reduce gender inequality, make women financially autonomous and reduce Gender-Based Violence (GBV). In Pakistan, most of the women residents of government managed shelters, and female inmates of prisons belong to the lower socioeconomic groups , which places them in an already marginalized position to start off and further exacerbates the barriers to their economic and social reintegration once they leave these institutions. Many of these women are accompanied by children who have additional needs, and they are largely dependent on their immediate family or husband/ in-laws for economic resources and even bare essentials. Once they leave, patriarchal family structures and societal norms fail to provide them with a conducive environment to live independent lives where they can make decisions in their own interest. These barriers to living a life of independence and dignity result in a high rate of return to abusive partners or households, perpetuating the cycles of violence and crime. This study is designed to assess needs of women in distress living in shelters or prisons to inform policy and programmatic actions on the rehabilitation plans for such women and corresponding allocation resources.
This report examines the critical role of family-friendly policies and workplace childcare in Pakistan, emphasizing their impact on economic growth, gender equality, and workforce retention. It identifies significant gaps in existing policy frameworks and childcare infrastructure that hinder the full participation of working parents- particularly women-in the labor market. Drawing upon both quantitative data and qualitative insights, the analysis reveals that cultural norms and a lack of structured childcare services create substantial challenges for parents who need to balance both their professional and caregiving responsibilities.
Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, faces significant development challenges due to its distinct demographic characteristics. Persistent gender disparities and inequalities continue to hinder the province's progress, underscoring the need for a clear understanding of its population dynamics to inform effective policy decisions. This publication presents an in-depth analysis of Balochistan's population based on the 2023 Population and Housing Census. It offers valuable insights into demographic trends, with a particular focus on gender disparities in education, access to technology, housing ownership, and employment. By providing data-driven evidence, the publication sheds light on critical areas of concern and aims to guide evidence-based policymaking. It addresses gender inequality by highlighting structural gaps and advocating for targeted, gender-inclusive development strategies. Through this analysis, the publication seeks to support the formulation of policies and interventions tailored to the specific needs of Balochistan's population, ultimately fostering sustainable growth and inclusive progress across the province.
This report presents a comprehensive assessment of gender parity in Islamabad. It focuses on key sectors such as justice, demographics, economy, education, health, and governance. The f indings reveal significant progress in certain areas; however, disparities require urgent attention and reform interventions.
This report emphatically focuses on analysing GBV trends and types—Honor Killings, Rape, Kidnapping/Abduction, and Domestic Violence—across Pakistan, with a strong emphasis on identifying deficiencies in reporting, investigations, and trial proceedings. By meticulously examining case registration, conviction rates, and delays in the judicial process, the study reveals deep-rooted systemic barriers. Highlighting these gaps is essential to strengthen law enforcement mechanisms, enhance victim support services, and ensure the robust implementation of legal frameworks to fiercely protect women and girls from violence.
Mapping Study On Violence Against Children in Pakistan(2024): A Provincial Analysis of Physical and Sexual Abuse, Kidnapping, Child Trafficking, Child Marriage, and Child Labor
Following the comprehensive Provincial Analysis of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Pakistan – 2024, the provincial report highlights the prevalence and patterns of GBV across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Balochistan and Islamabad Capital Territory. The provincial report provided the insights into the overall scale of the issue. This report provides a district-wise breakdown, a closer look to individual districts to understand the localized trends, assess variations in reporting and response, and develop more targeted interventions at the grassroots level. By focusing on district-specific data, the report uncovers nuanced and hidden realities of GBV that may be masked by the provincial level.
This National Report on the Status of Women (NRSW) highlights the environment of the country for women and girls, which shapes and influences their lives, including factors that can improve their wellbeing. It uses the most recent official data including secondary data from various national and sub-national sources as compiled in the NGDP, as well as findings from qualitative and quantitative studies to provide an analytical profile of women in Pakistan.
The founding father of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was an indefatigable campaigner for women’s rights who advocated for full participation of women in public life and in nationbuilding. In keeping with his vision, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has pledged to ensure the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country. Pakistan was amongst the first group of countries in the United Nations to sign the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 and since then has become signatory to seven international human rights treaties out of nine. The Vision 2025 of Pakistan reaffirms the commitment of the Government to promote an enabling environment for women so that they may realize their full potential and be active contributors to the development of the country.