2023 has probably been one of the most challenging years for Pakistan in recent history in terms of economic growth and its implications on the common man. The country has seen retarded economic growth and high inflation, which has led policy makers to rethink the course that the country has to take in future so that we never have to suffer such financial difficulties again. But just like every dark cloud has a silver lining, it is hoped that these adverse circumstances will lead to a shift in societal attitudes regarding women empowerment in those segments of the society that were slower in accepting the need for women to be financially independent and the utilization of their potential for national development. It is imperative that we realize that a concerted effort by all segments of the society and all its citizens is needed to pull the country out of these dire straits.
It is true that Pakistan might have been a bit slow to recognize the potential of its women but this does not mean that strides have not been made. There are countless shining examples of Pakistani women who are working tirelessly for their country in their varied capacities thanks to their own initiative, their families’ support, and the policies that are designed to facilitate the inclusion of women in every sphere of national life. We also have to laud the gradual shift in perception about women playing roles in addition to the traditional ones that has occurred in our society. However, we can no longer afford to go at the pace we have been going at. Things have come to a head and now we have to skip a few steps if we want to pull the country out of stagnation and onto the road to progress. We can also no longer wait for everything to be laid out perfectly by the government for women to make their contribution, the rest of us have just as much stake and responsibility to create the environment where women can realize their potential.
As we prepare to welcome the new year, we also celebrate the birth anniversary of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and as we do so, we cannot but remember what he envisioned for his country and its women. He was a visionary leader who knew that in order for Pakistan to develop, its women have to work alongside the men in every sphere of life, in whatever capacity they could. He not only encouraged women with his rhetoric but also led by example through the upbringing he gave his sister, the way he encouraged her to work and by also involving her in politics. Unfortunately for Pakistan, the Quaid left this world too soon and so couldn’t fulfil his vision. But we do know what he imagined Pakistan should look like and also the role its women were to play in this, so this is a good time to make resolutions based on his vision for the upcoming year, for ourselves and our country.

Happy New Year!

Nadia Zubair
Email: [email protected]