By Admin 
Female labor force participation in Pakistan remains the lowest level in the world. The main reasons for this are deeply rooted cultural beliefs, institutional weaknesses and structural inequalities. This has come to light in a report by Athens-based think tank Directus. According to the report, comprehensive reforms are needed to deal with these challenges. This includes promoting effective enforcement of labor laws, availability of childcare facilities, safe transportation, digital and financial inclusion, and eliminating discriminatory social attitudes that restrict women’s mobility and autonomy.
The report warns that unless targeted interventions are made, these inequalities will reinforce the cycle of poverty and underdevelopment, marginalizing the economic potential of nearly half of Pakistan’s population. Directus’ report states that Pakistan’s female labor force participation rate among women aged 15 to 64 years is only 22.6 percent, which is much lower than the global average of 52.6 percent. This is lower than the South Asia average of 25.2 percent. In urban areas, where economic opportunities are generally greater, the situation is not much better. In the capital Islamabad, women’s labor participation is only 22.5 percent, while men’s participation is up to 67 percent.
Challenge before women
According to the report, urban women also face additional challenges such as limited mobility, social pressures and lack of family support, making it difficult for them to enter and survive working life. The report says that the combination of structural inequalities and deeply entrenched social beliefs increases these disparities. Gender expectations regarding household responsibilities, pay gap, limited access to financial services and high-income sectors push women to economic marginalization. The report also mentions that along with economic and political exclusion, Pakistani women also face social and security-related barriers. Especially women associated with politics, media and social activism have to face challenges like sexual violence, harassment and character assassination.
Women politicians and journalists are intimidated
The report said that women politicians and journalists often face intimidation and defamation campaigns to undermine their participation. Such hostile environments not only discourage women from entering public life, but also reinforce attitudes that question women’s leadership and autonomy.
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