Pakistan: International Women’s Day

Daily Times

International Women’s Day (IWD) is being celebrated all over the world today as an ode to the mammoth strides women have taken in every sphere of life, be it in the workplace, the cultural space or even the home. It is an appreciation of the role played by women in shaping society as we know it. Historically, IWD is being commemorated since 1908. It started as a socialist political event, marking women’s relatively freer access to the industrialised world, and then spreading across the world as a day celebrating female suffrage. It is now a day of appreciation, devotion and love for what is, essentially, one half of the world’s population. Throughout the world, on March 8, celebrations are held, women are given glowing tributes and a general air of female empowerment dominates. And in Pakistan? We still seem to be stuck in the dark ages as far as our treatment of women is concerned. Pakistan is still fighting the demons of suppression and patriarchy with women as the frontline victims in this war. Cases of domestic violence have surged, militancy in the tribal regions is seeing girls’ schools bombed to smithereens and rising conservatism is the reason more women are seeing the four walls instead of the open world. Honour killings, rape, harassment and other social evils are also on the rise. At the same time, we are seeing more women venture out of their homes in the hopes of becoming economic agents to cope with rising inflation. However, they are still surrounded by a male dominated culture that views them as the ‘honour’ and ‘shame’ of men. This government did try to pass a few bills and legislation to see women gain a better footing in society and the workplace, such as the Bill Against Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, and it tried to get a bill against domestic violence passed but that is still pending. However, all these efforts are far from enough. We need to see many more positive steps taken to bring women true emancipation, more equality, freedom from orthodox tradition and cultural stagnation, and we need to see an end to violence, gender discrimination, persecution, rape and stigma. It is hoped that the post-election government will step up to the monumental task of introducing the right kind of attitude towards women and will help them achieve all they are meant to and be celebrated for.