Women Development Related Policies in Pakistan: A Preliminary Gap Analysis

Women living in third-world countries, such as Pakistan, often face the perception of being less competent and less significant participants in national development. In the Pakistani context, this situation can be attributed, among other factors, to the lack of tangible policies ensuring women's access to key decision-making positions and opportunities for career development. This paper aims to examine the major policies concerning women that have been formulated over the years in the form of acts and laws. Additionally, the study highlights the inadequate attention given by Pakistani policymakers to acts or bills that would facilitate women's career development. The research reveals that the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCWS) in 2012 and subsequent initiatives in 2014, 2016, and 2018 do not fully address the issues related to women's career development. Furthermore, the study uncovers a gap between the policy measures outlined in the first national-level policy for women in 2002, which encompass social, economic, and political dimensions, and their implementation in assisting Pakistani women in their career development. Therefore, this study makes a significant contribution by promoting research on women's status, not only by reporting factors of gender discrimination and cultural restraints but also by analyzing the historical development of official policies and the implementation gap concerning women's career development in Pakistan.