On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of women around the world, while also highlighting the systemic impediments that continue to exist. Women in Pakistan have been breaking new ground and contributing considerably to national development, but women in India, notably in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), continue to suffer considerable problems.
Pakistan has seen a significant increase in female representation and accomplishment across numerous industries, demonstrating the country’s progress towards gender equality. The country’s commitment to empowering women is demonstrated by the growing number of women achieving extraordinary feats in disciplines ranging from politics and the military to arts, science, and education.
Political and Military Achievements
Female engagement in politics has increased, with women accounting for 22% of members in the National Assembly by 2024. This figure not only indicates a great success in Pakistani government, but it also ranks Pakistan among the top countries in South Asia for female parliamentary representation. Pakistani women have broken long-held gender stereotypes in the armed forces. By 2024, the number of female officers in the armed forces will have reached a new high. Among the famous names, Lt. Gen. Nigar Johar stands out as a source of inspiration, having been promoted to Lieutenant General, the highest rank ever held by a woman in the Pakistan Army. Her historic appointment as Pakistan’s Surgeon General is a huge step forward in the military’s female inclusion efforts. In February 2024, 30 female officers, excluding doctors and personnel of the Armed Forces Nursing Service (AFNS), were promoted to Lieutenant Colonel for the first time in Pakistan Army history. This historic event is a tremendous step forward in gender inclusion and women’s empowerment inside Pakistan’s military, demonstrating the country’s commitment to offering equal opportunity for women in all fields of service.
Contributions for Global Peace
Pakistani women have also made an impact on the global scene, particularly through United Nations peacekeeping deployments. By 2024, Pakistan has proudly met its objective of deploying 15% female staff officers in UN Peacekeeping Missions, demonstrating the country’s commitment to gender equality in global peace and security operations. Notably, Deputy Superintendent Shahzadi Gulfam received the UN’s Award for International Female Police, demonstrating the courage and dedication of Pakistani women serving abroad.
Trailblazers in Arts, Science, and Education
Pakistani women have excelled in arts and sciences, earning international respect for the country. Arooj Aftab rose to prominence in the music industry, earning a Grammy Award in 2022 and becoming the first Pakistani singer to perform at the Grammys. In the world of exploration, Namira Salim’s accomplishments are unrivalled. She was the first Pakistani to reach both the North and South Poles, raising Pakistan’s flag and establishing a precedent for future explorers.
In the judiciary, Justice Ayesha A. Malik’s nomination to Pakistan’s Supreme Court in 2023 was a watershed moment, as she became the country’s first female judge. Her advancement exemplifies Pakistani women’s development in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
The plight of women in India and IIOJK
While Pakistan makes progress in gender equality, the situation in India and IIOJK is starkly different. According to a Thomson Reuters Foundation report, India remains one of the most hazardous countries for women, with high rates of sexual violence, human trafficking, and systematic discrimination.
In IIOJK, the situation is grave, with women’s rights being severely violated. According to reports, between 1989 and 2023, Indian security personnel were involved in the rapes of around 11,224 women, with legal frameworks such as the Armed personnel Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA) allowing criminals to go free. The use of sexual abuse as a weapon of war in IIOJK highlights the critical need for international action and support for the victims.
As we observe International Women’s Day, it is critical to recognise the achievements of Pakistani women in a variety of fields. Their accomplishments not only benefit the country’s growth, but also inspire women around the world to pursue their dreams without limitations. Concurrently, the international community must address the persistent issues that women confront in India and the IIOJK. Advocacy for legal reforms, international monitoring, and assistance for victims of gender-based violence are critical to creating a safer, more equal world for all women. The path to gender equality is far from complete, but with ongoing effort, activism, and understanding, we can create a future in which women’s rights are widely valued and protected. Let this International Women’s Day serve as a call to action for everyone to help empower women by honouring their achievements and pushing for their rights and opportunities.
