Pakistan currently ranks 146th out of 170 countries in the 2022 Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index, according to the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security.
This ranking highlights the challenges Pakistan faces in promoting women's rights and ensuring their full participation in peacebuilding and security processes.
Key Factors Contributing to Pakistan's Ranking:
- Limited Access to Education and Healthcare: Pakistan has a significant gender gap in education and healthcare access, impacting women's economic opportunities and overall well-being.
- High Levels of Violence Against Women: Violence against women, including domestic violence, honor killings, and acid attacks, remains a serious problem in Pakistan.
- Limited Political Representation: While there have been some improvements, women's representation in political decision-making remains low, limiting their ability to advocate for their rights and needs.
- Cultural and Social Norms: Deep-rooted patriarchal norms and traditions continue to restrict women's mobility, freedom of movement, and opportunities for economic and social advancement.
Improving Pakistan's WPS Ranking:
- Investing in Education and Healthcare: Ensuring equal access to quality education and healthcare for girls and women is crucial for their empowerment and overall development.
- Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Enacting and enforcing laws that protect women's rights, address violence against women, and promote gender equality is essential.
- Promoting Women's Participation in Politics: Encouraging women's participation in political decision-making at all levels, through quotas and other measures, is vital for their voices to be heard and their needs addressed.
- Addressing Cultural and Social Norms: Challenging harmful gender stereotypes and promoting gender-sensitive attitudes through education, awareness campaigns, and community engagement is key to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
By addressing these challenges, Pakistan can work towards improving its WPS ranking and creating a more peaceful and secure environment for all its citizens, especially women.
