I welcome you to the world of feminism.
Feminism has existed as a vast movement since the 18th century across the world. When women step out to study, work, and take roles in the marketplace, they are often considered immoral and unethical by rigid dogmas. However, women possess a nurturing and compassionate nature that helps children prosper and evolve. Similarly, nations progress when they empower all members of society to contribute to sustainable development. Half of history could have been written by women if they had been allowed to write without anonymity. When we look back into history, we find one of the most prominent works by Mary Wollstonecraft, who wrote A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. This is considered one of the earliest and most influential works of feminist thought, published in 1792. Every age has acknowledged the importance of women in society, yet patriarchal thinking continues to crush their dreams and limit their lives. Women often remain dependent on men's financial resources, instead of being recognized as equal partners with rights and responsibilities given by God. Women are often equally, if not more, capable than men, but social hierarchies prevent them from accessing opportunities that could transform not only their own lives but also contribute to long-term national development.
Let us also examine the situation in Pakistan. According to the Global Gender Gap Index 2025, Pakistan ranks 148th out of 148 countries, highlighting a severe gender disparity. Only about 23% of women participate in the workforce, compared to 81% of men. Women hold less than 21% of seats in parliament. In education, approximately 13 million girls between the ages of 5 and 16 are out of school. This reflects the current status of women in Pakistan. However, if we look globally, we see women actively contributing in politics, education, and decision-making. For example, Shamshad Akhtar became the first female Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan. Nigar Johar became the first female Lieutenant General in the Pakistan Army. Sana Mir became the first Pakistani woman inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2025.
Furthermore, a bill proposing 32% women's participation in federal government institutions has recently been passed. Despite seeing both sides of the picture, society still fails to fully empower women, often restricting them within man-made limitations rather than giving them the freedom to grow.
As Joyce Banda once said, “The seeds of success in every nation on earth are best planted in women and children.” Therefore, women are the key pillars of any developed nation. By empowering women, we empower the nation. |