Gender Inequality and Societal Oppression of Women in Pakistan

Abstract

Gender inequality and oppression are common in most patriarchal societies. Pakistan, a developing country of the Global South, has been wrangling with gender discrimination and violence against women since its inception in 1947. Globally, Pakistan is ranked third from the bottom (151 out of 153) on the Gender Equality Index. While patriarchal norms can have severe consequences for women's rights, it is important to look at the different ways in which patriarchy can manifest across socioeconomic levels. This chapter discusses the experiences of women in the lower, middle, and upper classes of Pakistani society. Thematic analysis of interview data reveals an overlap of forms of oppression and abuse, including the pervasiveness of masculine hegemony, workplace harassment, and in-law interference after marriage, as well as other challenges unique to each social class. The importance of education for women and girls is highlighted, while acknowledging that education alone, without family and societal suppor, may not be enough to break the shackles of the patriarchy for Pakistani women.