Public sector barriers hinder Pakistani women, survey shows

ISLAMABAD: Only one in four women in Pakistan is involved in the nation’s labor force despite a 50 percent increase in women’s participation rates over the past 15 years, a United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN Women) survey found.
UN Women and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released the findings of a study into women’s representation and access to decision-making roles in the civil service on Friday. The survey was carried out under UNDP’s global Gender Equality in Public Administration (GEPA) initiative.
The GEPA study was one of 15 in-depth surveys conducted around the world with UNDP support and using methodology developed in collaboration with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
The study found that social barriers still limit women’s representation and advancement in the civil service in Pakistan. With promotions based on years in service, gender stereotyping and social norms, women tend to be concentrated mainly in entry-level positions.
The UNDP’s Pakistan deputy director, Naoko Takasu, said: “It is commendable that women’s labor force participation in Pakistan has increased by 50 percent in the past 15 years. However, only one in four women participates in the labor force, meaning that there is a treasure trove of talent that is not utilized. As one of the largest employers in the country, the public sector is an important entry point for women.
“Enhancing women’s role in leadership and decision-making will have an immense impact on gender equality and on Pakistan’s development goals,” she said.
UN Women country representative Jamshed Kazi said: “Pakistan is committed to achieving a 30 percent representation of women in leadership positions. This study shows that to achieve this, action is needed to address the barriers they face.”