Women are the foundation of families, communities, and the national economy. Yet systemic barriers continue to limit their access to education, employment, safety, and representation, costing Pakistan an estimated 4% of its GDP each year. Awaam Pakistan envisions a nation where women are not only protected but truly empowered: their voices shape public policy, their skills drive economic growth, and their rights are upheld by both law and culture. By advancing education, leadership, legal protection, workplace equality, and financial inclusion, we aim to unlock the full potential of Pakistani women, building a society where every individual—regardless of gender—can contribute freely and confidently to the nation's shared prosperity.
1. Representation and Leadership
In Pakistan, women make up 22% of the workforce, with leadership roles even more sparsely represented. Awaam Pakistan is committed to ensuring women's meaningful participation in Parliament, Provincial Assemblies, the judiciary, civil service, and armed forces. By promoting qualified women into leadership and policymaking positions, we aim to strengthen democracy, advance social justice, and build a more inclusive national vision. Our policy will include leadership quotas, mentorship networks, and gender-balanced recruitment in all government and semi-government bodies to ensure women's perspectives shape the nation's future at every level.
2. Legal Protection and Justice
In recent years, gender-based violence has skyrocketed in Pakistan: 56% of women report abuse, yet only 2.5% seek formal help due to stigma and limited access. Awaam Pakistan will combat violence, harassment, and discrimination through free legal aid clinics, 24/7 helplines, and trauma counseling centers in every district. We will reinforce women's rights to property and inheritance and establish Family and Domestic Dispute Resolution Boards to resolve cases within six months. Strong enforcement of laws like the Anti-Harassment Act (2010) and Domestic Violence Acts will ensure zero tolerance for abuse.
3. Education and Skill Development
In Pakistan, girls lag behind boys at every educational level: 32% of primary-age girls and 59% of adolescents are out of school, female literacy is 48% versus 70% for males, and only 36% of university students are women. Awaam Pakistan will close this gap through targeted scholarships, vocational and digital skills training, and by promoting female participation in STEM and ICT, where women make up under 18% of students. Community-based schools and mobile learning in rural areas will reduce dropouts, bridge the digital divide, and empower women as leaders in governance and development.
4. Workplace Equality and Family Support
Women often leave the workforce due to family and childcare responsibilities, contributing to Pakistan's low female labor participation rate (22%). Awaam Pakistan aims to transform workplace culture by promoting flexible schedules, comprehensive maternity benefits, and accessible childcare. We will advocate for at least 16 weeks of paid maternity leave and paternity leave to encourage shared caregiving. Gender audits and certification systems will hold institutions accountable, while awareness campaigns and policy reforms will eliminate workplace harassment, ensuring women can work safely, with dignity, and equal opportunity across public and private sectors.
5. Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment
In Pakistan, only 13% of women have a formal bank account, and under 5% access formal credit, limiting financial autonomy. Women entrepreneurs contribute less than 3% of GDP, revealing untapped potential. Awaam Pakistan will remove barriers through gender-responsive laws and policies, promoting banking, credit, and digital financial tools. Microcredit and microfinance initiatives will prioritize women in rural, low-income, and conflict-affected areas. Collaborating with banks, we will establish Women Enterprise Desks and expand digital financial literacy, enabling women across all regions to start businesses, achieve financial independence, and fully participate in Pakistan's economic growth.