STATE POLICIES AND WOMEN’S RIGHTS IN PAKISTAN (1947–2024): A HISTORICAL REVIEW

Abstract

The paper sketches this trajectory from the egalitarian idealism of post-independence and constitutional battles, to patronizing sorts under authoritarian periods (recalling in particular that of Zia-ul-Haq's phase of Islamization), to partial openings and reform agendas under democratic ones. It discusses contest between patriarchal social practices, religious exegesis of texts and modernist imaginations which have subsequently evolved men-made laws institutional systems and judicial rulings pertaining to women. Leveraging historical and bibliographic as well as primary evidence, the article contends that state policies toward women in Pakistan have “oscillated between an enabling and regulatory stance” over time due to – even if not some complicity with – larger political economic, ideological and global trends.Finally, the research emphasizes that despite considerable advancements made by women’s rights activists, gender equality depends on political will, change in society and a state that fulfills is role to ensure justice based on constitutional rights.