Conundrum of Women Political Participation in Pakistan: Impediments and Opportunities

Abstract

Throughout the historical kaleidoscope of Pakistan politics, it is evident that women role has not been substantial irrespective of their population size.This article highlights the historical political situation of women role along with challenges and opportunities in their participation and representation in Pakistan's politics.It is evident that their decreased descriptive participation reciprocated into lower substantive contribution in the Pakistan politics.The voting turnout used to be lower as compare to the male counterpart during all the elections in Pakistan.Through qualitative investigation and the data of the elections, it is observed that the situation is gradually transforming in the 21 st century and it is improved as compare to the earlier status.The patriarchal society, poverty, religious dogma etc, are the main stumbling blocks towards women political emancipation.Increased educational status, economic wellbeing and enhanced role in decision making bodies will serve as an antidote to all the issues.