By:Khoula Khan
As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8th, the world prepares to recognize the achievements and struggles of women. While it is crucial to honor the contributions of women globally, it is equally important to ensure that we are addressing the real issues that women face. Unfortunately, in the context of Pakistan, and especially in Islamabad, this day often becomes a platform hijacked by irrelevant debates, distracting us from the critical challenges that women truly face in society. This editorial aims to shed light on the genuine issues of women empowerment that need to be addressed and calls for a more constructive approach to these discussions. Every year, a handful of people, often backed by foreign-funded NGOs with hidden agendas, seize the spotlight during Women’s Day celebrations, presenting narratives that are far removed from the actual struggles faced by the majority of women. These voices, amplified by some segments of the media in Islamabad, divert attention from the pressing concerns of Pakistani & Kashmiri women, leaving their real issues unaddressed. While these individuals may gain their five minutes of fame, the 55% of women in Pakistan, who represent the majority of our population, continue to endure the hardships of a patriarchal system, limited access to education, poor healthcare, and lack of economic opportunities. It is disheartening to see how a media-driven narrative, often skewed and superficial, clouds the true essence of Women’s Day. Instead of focusing on pragmatic solutions and the real empowerment of women, we witness an annual display of controversy, with certain groups pushing non-issues to the forefront, leaving the concerns of the majority of women in Pakistan & Azad Kashmir, forgotten. Women empowerment, within the context of Islam and our society, does not require us to engage in irrelevant political debates or adopt foreign ideologies. True empowerment stems from recognizing the inherent rights of women as granted by Islam and our cultural norms, and by providing them with the tools to succeed. One of the most significant ways to achieve this is through access to quality education. In a country where many girls still do not have access to schools, it is our responsibility to prioritize the education of young girls and women, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to compete in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, healthcare remains a significant concern for women in Pakistan. With inadequate facilities, especially in rural areas, women often face immense challenges in accessing basic healthcare. From maternal health to mental health, the lack of sufficient resources and medical professionals dedicated to women’s health is alarming. The government and relevant stakeholders must allocate more resources to improving healthcare facilities for women and ensuring their wellbeing is not compromised. But it is not just about providing healthcare and education. Women also need to have their voices heard within the corridors of power. We have witnessed a growing number of women parliamentarians in Pakistan, many of whom were elected through reserved seats under the women’s quota system. However, it is disheartening to note that many of these women, once in power, have failed to make any significant strides in addressing the real issues affecting women. Rather than advocating for policies that benefit women, many have been content to remain silent or engage in personal political games. It is time for women parliamentarians to step up and prove that they are not just figureheads but leaders who will fight for the genuine empowerment of women. Another grave issue that cannot be ignored is the plight of women in Indian-occupied Kashmir. Thousands of women have been widowed or half-widowed as a result of the ongoing conflict in Kashmir. These women, many of whom have been left to fend for themselves and their children, are waiting for justice and recognition of their suffering. As we mark International Women’s Day, we must not forget the women of Kashmir and the challenges they face on a daily basis. It is essential for the global community to acknowledge their struggles and work toward securing their rights and a peaceful resolution to their suffering. My call to action, therefore, is simple: the time has come for a paradigm shift in how we observe Women’s Day. Let us move beyond the distractions of sensationalist media campaigns and focus on the real issues that affect women in our society. Let us urge the government, parliamentarians, and humanitarian organizations to invest in solutions that will have a lasting impact on the lives of women. This includes addressing the gaps in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, as well as ensuring that women are adequately represented and supported in positions of power. We must also remember that the fight for women’s rights is not a one-day event. It is a year-round commitment to making tangible changes that improve the lives of women. Only then can we truly celebrate the spirit of International Women’s Day in a way that honors the struggles and triumphs of women, not just in Islamabad, but across Pakistan and beyond. In conclusion, it is time to look beyond the surface-level celebrations and media spectacles and focus on the real work that needs to be done. The empowerment of women is a collective responsibility, and it is high time that we come together to make meaningful progress on their behalf. Let us celebrate Women’s Day by committing ourselves to the real issues that matter and ensure that women’s voices are not drowned out by distractions but are amplified and heard where it matters most.
