ISLAMABAD: The Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) on Friday hosted a roundtable discussion to mark the International Women’s Day (IWD).
Fauzia Viqar, Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace was the keynote speaker at the discussion titled “Women’s Inclusion in Policy Discourse of Pakistan.”
In her introductory remarks, Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director CSP, shed light on the pivotal role of women in shaping the society.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood in his remarks stressed the role of women in shaping policies for Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
He said that beyond equality, unique challenges faced by women must be addressed to unlock the nation’s full potential.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood also highlighted role of historical figures such as Fatima Jinnah, Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Khan and Shaista Ikramullah as well as contemporary leaders across various sectors of Pakistan.
He said Pakistan at the United Nations has always advocated efforts to enhance women’s protection in conflict and post-war settings.
He noted that the National Gender Policy Framework 2022 is a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to women’s empowerment.
He added it is imperative to raise awareness and take practical steps to enhance gender equality and women’s place in society.
Former Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch in her views emphasized that women’s inclusion in policy making is a fundamental prerequisite for democracy and gender equality. She was of the view that addressing gender inequality is imperative for achieving women’s empowerment and their active involvement in policymaking.
She further elaborated that woman in Pakistan contribute in various sectors such as health, education, armed forces, policy, etc. She said that women face significant under-representation in higher positions and politics, despite constituting half of the population of the country.
Women participation growing within Pakistan armed forces
Major Wajiha Arhsad, Assistant Director, Information Operations Division, ISPR threw light on how women in the Pakistani forces and UN peacekeeping are performing their duties. She said that women’s participation is growing within the Pakistan armed forces and even extending to combat role as well.
However, she said this journey has not been without challenges. She said it is important to understand that gender is not a limitation but a strength. She added that women in uniform bring new experiences and strength to the society.
Dr. Salma Malik, Associate Professor, at Quaid-e-Azam University in her remarks said that to empower women, it is pivotal to provide safe social space, respect, and security.
Talking about women in conflict, she said that women are the direct and indirect victims of a conflict.
Dr. Fareeha Armughan, Head-Center of Evidence Action Research in her views shed light on the existing ‘implicit bias’ that exists, preventing women from achieving their full potential in workplaces.
She added that due to the systemic biases, institutions behave in ways that are biased and not gender inclusive.
Shanza Faiq, Assistant Director, Foreign Minister’s Office highlighted the enhanced role and inclusivity of women in the foreign office of Pakistan. She said women work side by side with their male counterparts and undertake important roles at the forefront of diplomacy and foreign affairs.
Fauzia Viqar in her remarks underscored the need for gender-friendly economic inclusion with a view to remove the primary hindrance to women’s economic empowerment.
She stressed the urgency of removing roadblocks in Pakistani society to ensure women’s equal competence.
Federal Ombudsperson said Pakistan has significantly low ranking in economic empowerment.
