1) Some key women in Pakistan's history worked to politically empower women, including Fatima Jinnah who challenged Ayub Khan for president, and Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz and Begum Shaista Ikram Ullah who succeeded in passing the Muslim Personal Law granting women inheritance rights.
2) However, women's political rights have also been periodically revoked, such as the abolition of female suffrage in the 1962 constitution.
3) Under Musharraf, women's reserved seats in assemblies increased to 20% but direct voting rights for these seats were not restored, limiting women parliamentarians' accountability to female constituents. Greater efforts are still needed to protect women's rights and advance their political participation
Women right and women protection bill in pakistanKati Kokab
This document discusses women's rights in Pakistan. It begins by outlining the constitutional protections for women's equality and non-discrimination. However, it notes that in practice women's rights are often violated through discriminatory laws like the Hudood Ordinances, harmful customs like honor killings, and various forms of violence. It also discusses the poor state of women's health, education, and political participation. Some positive developments are noted, like more women entering the workforce and political offices. The document examines various commissions established to address women's issues, but notes their recommendations have often been ignored. It aims to highlight both the protections for women in law and constitution, and the ongoing challenges to realizing women's rights in Pakistan.
Laws affecting the rights of women in paksociology92
The document discusses the laws affecting the rights of women in Pakistan, specifically focusing on the Hudood Ordinances from 1979. It outlines several issues with the Hudood Ordinances, noting they have led to injustice against women in many cases and are inconsistent with Islamic principles in some respects. A committee was formed to review the laws and recommended unanimously that the Hudood Ordinances should be repealed due to the numerous defects and injustices they contained.
Women in Pakistan have constitutional protections for equality and non-discrimination according to the 1973 Constitution. However, women still face significant challenges, including domestic violence. In 2013, Pakistan passed the Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill to define and punish domestic violence. Prior laws were also amended, such as removing rape from the Hudood Ordinances and trying it as a criminal offense. Additionally, the National Commission on the Status of Women was established in 2000 to promote women's rights and development. Nonetheless, crimes targeting women like honor killings, acid attacks, and abductions still occur.
The document discusses the intersections between the Islamicisation of laws in Pakistan and the protection of women's rights. It summarizes that the introduction of Hudood Ordinances in 1979 merged secular and Islamic laws, negatively impacting women. Specifically, the Zina Ordinance allowed the patriarchy to oppress women through legal loopholes. However, the relationship between Islamicisation and women's rights is complex. Later reforms like the Women's Protection Act showed Islamicisation can also protect women's rights with creative interpretations. The impacts depend on how Islamicisation is manipulated by societies.
Rights of women in constitution of pakistan, reported by frceNadeem Wagan Wagan
The document summarizes the rights of women in the Constitution of Pakistan. It outlines several fundamental rights including the right to life and liberty, prohibition of slavery, freedom of religion, property rights, and guarantees of equality and non-discrimination. It also discusses principles of policy that require special representation of women in local government, full participation of women in national life, and protection of marriage, family, mother and child. The constitution aims to ensure basic necessities and well-being for all citizens irrespective of sex.
This document discusses women's rights issues in Pakistan. It begins by outlining the universal rights of women according to the Pakistani constitution and Islam. However, it notes that in practice women's rights are often violated through discriminatory laws like the Hudood Ordinances, harmful customs like honor killings, and various forms of violence. It also discusses the poor state of women's health, education, and social status. The document does acknowledge some positive changes and efforts made to improve women's rights, such as more women in leadership positions. Overall, it analyzes the gap between women's legal rights and the realities of widespread abuse and discrimination that many Pakistani women face.
The document discusses the oppression and discrimination faced by women in Pakistan. It notes low life expectancy, high infant mortality, lack of healthcare and education in rural areas, and low political and economic participation. It outlines some steps taken by different governments to promote women's rights, such as reserving seats in national assemblies, establishing women's banks, and passing the Women's Protection Bill to protect women from violence and discrimination. However, social norms and men's domination continue to restrict women's freedoms and progress in Pakistan.
The document summarizes the political history of Pakistan from 1969 to 2012. It describes the events surrounding the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, including elections that led to a power crisis and military action against East Pakistan. It then outlines the periods of martial law under Yahya Khan and Zia-ul-Haq, and the multiple terms of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, which were marked by conflict between prime ministers and presidents that led to dissolved assemblies. It notes key events like nuclear tests and the Kargil War before concluding with the return of democracy and elections in 2008.
Women right and women protection bill in pakistanKati Kokab
This document discusses women's rights in Pakistan. It begins by outlining the constitutional protections for women's equality and non-discrimination. However, it notes that in practice women's rights are often violated through discriminatory laws like the Hudood Ordinances, harmful customs like honor killings, and various forms of violence. It also discusses the poor state of women's health, education, and political participation. Some positive developments are noted, like more women entering the workforce and political offices. The document examines various commissions established to address women's issues, but notes their recommendations have often been ignored. It aims to highlight both the protections for women in law and constitution, and the ongoing challenges to realizing women's rights in Pakistan.
Laws affecting the rights of women in paksociology92
The document discusses the laws affecting the rights of women in Pakistan, specifically focusing on the Hudood Ordinances from 1979. It outlines several issues with the Hudood Ordinances, noting they have led to injustice against women in many cases and are inconsistent with Islamic principles in some respects. A committee was formed to review the laws and recommended unanimously that the Hudood Ordinances should be repealed due to the numerous defects and injustices they contained.
Women in Pakistan have constitutional protections for equality and non-discrimination according to the 1973 Constitution. However, women still face significant challenges, including domestic violence. In 2013, Pakistan passed the Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill to define and punish domestic violence. Prior laws were also amended, such as removing rape from the Hudood Ordinances and trying it as a criminal offense. Additionally, the National Commission on the Status of Women was established in 2000 to promote women's rights and development. Nonetheless, crimes targeting women like honor killings, acid attacks, and abductions still occur.
The document discusses the intersections between the Islamicisation of laws in Pakistan and the protection of women's rights. It summarizes that the introduction of Hudood Ordinances in 1979 merged secular and Islamic laws, negatively impacting women. Specifically, the Zina Ordinance allowed the patriarchy to oppress women through legal loopholes. However, the relationship between Islamicisation and women's rights is complex. Later reforms like the Women's Protection Act showed Islamicisation can also protect women's rights with creative interpretations. The impacts depend on how Islamicisation is manipulated by societies.
Rights of women in constitution of pakistan, reported by frceNadeem Wagan Wagan
The document summarizes the rights of women in the Constitution of Pakistan. It outlines several fundamental rights including the right to life and liberty, prohibition of slavery, freedom of religion, property rights, and guarantees of equality and non-discrimination. It also discusses principles of policy that require special representation of women in local government, full participation of women in national life, and protection of marriage, family, mother and child. The constitution aims to ensure basic necessities and well-being for all citizens irrespective of sex.
This document discusses women's rights issues in Pakistan. It begins by outlining the universal rights of women according to the Pakistani constitution and Islam. However, it notes that in practice women's rights are often violated through discriminatory laws like the Hudood Ordinances, harmful customs like honor killings, and various forms of violence. It also discusses the poor state of women's health, education, and social status. The document does acknowledge some positive changes and efforts made to improve women's rights, such as more women in leadership positions. Overall, it analyzes the gap between women's legal rights and the realities of widespread abuse and discrimination that many Pakistani women face.
The document discusses the oppression and discrimination faced by women in Pakistan. It notes low life expectancy, high infant mortality, lack of healthcare and education in rural areas, and low political and economic participation. It outlines some steps taken by different governments to promote women's rights, such as reserving seats in national assemblies, establishing women's banks, and passing the Women's Protection Bill to protect women from violence and discrimination. However, social norms and men's domination continue to restrict women's freedoms and progress in Pakistan.
The document summarizes the political history of Pakistan from 1969 to 2012. It describes the events surrounding the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, including elections that led to a power crisis and military action against East Pakistan. It then outlines the periods of martial law under Yahya Khan and Zia-ul-Haq, and the multiple terms of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, which were marked by conflict between prime ministers and presidents that led to dissolved assemblies. It notes key events like nuclear tests and the Kargil War before concluding with the return of democracy and elections in 2008.
The document summarizes Pakistani political history from 1988-2008, including periods of democratic rule and military rule. It discusses the tenures of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif as Prime Ministers from 1988-1990, 1990-1993, 1993-1996, and 1997-1999. It also covers the military rule of Pervez Musharraf from 1999-2007. Key events included Zia-ul-Haq's death in 1988, various elections and dismissals of Bhutto and Sharif's governments, and periods of caretaker rule.
The document discusses the political system and role of religion in Pakistan. It provides background on Pakistan's history and establishment as an Islamic nation. Islam is deeply ingrained in Pakistan's identity, with 97% of the population identifying as Muslim. The constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic republic and requires laws to be aligned with Islamic principles. However, the role of Islam remains controversial, as an overemphasis on religious ideology has weakened national unity. Military rule also exacerbated religious fundamentalism, complicating Pakistan's ability to function as a modern state.
Every Act of the Parliament commences with a preamble which consists of the introductory words “An Act to……†followed by words briefly describing its objects. The preamble of a statute may be relied upon as aid to the understanding of the meaning thereof or for determining general object and intention of the Parliament in passing the enactment, but the preamble cannot control the express clear language and sweep of the operating provisions of such an instrument. When the language, object and the scope of the Act are not open to doubt, the enacting part cannot be restricted, extended or modified, by reference either to the title or preamble. Preamble is evidence of thought process of representatives. The practice of inserting elaborate preambles in Acts of the parliament has not disappeared and it is now regarded as well settled law that a preamble neither cuts down nor restricts, nor extends, nor enlarges the enacting part, when the language, scope and objf such part are clear and unambiguous. According to the preamble, this is an act to provide for more effective protection of the rights of women. Geetika Sood | Avrida Jan ""Object and Reasons of Domestic Violence Act"" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-4 , June 2019,
URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd24052.pdf
Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/law-and-management/24052/object-and-reasons-of-domestic-violence-act/geetika-sood
Benazir Bhutto served two non-consecutive terms as Prime Minister of Pakistan, from 1988 to 1990 and 1993 to 1996. However, both of her governments were plagued by problems and ultimately dismissed. She faced opposition from Nawaz Sharif and accusations of corruption. Her governments lacked majority support in most provinces beyond Sindh. Both of her administrations were dismissed before completing their terms, the first time due to corruption charges and the second for corruption and nepotism.
Democratic experience of benazir bhutto (in two terms)WajeehaGull1
This document is an assignment on the democratic experience of Benazir Bhutto during her two terms as Prime Minister of Pakistan. It provides biographical information on Bhutto and outlines her political career, including becoming the first female Prime Minister after the death of Zia-ul-Haq in 1988. The document discusses Bhutto's vision, her fight against dictatorship and terrorism, and developmental programs and challenges during her 1988-1990 and 1993-1996 terms. It also notes Bhutto's inspiration and commitment to democratic values and processes in Pakistan.
Constitutions and political crisis in pakistan (1947-2014)Tallat Satti
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1947-56)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1957-72)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1973-88)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1989-2000)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan(2001-2014)
This document summarizes a study on Zimbabwean women's involvement in conflict transformation, peacebuilding, and political transitions. It outlines how Zimbabwean women have long played an active role in the country's politics, from fighting colonialism to advocating for women's rights after independence. While important laws were adopted early on to promote women's rights, political polarization and economic crisis from 2000-2008 weakened the women's movement. However, women remained engaged in struggles for equal rights and constitutional reforms. The study examines women's experiences with violence, their participation in politics and peace processes, and challenges faced in advocating for women's issues in Zimbabwe.
Political and constitutional phases of pakisatan 1988-OnwardMalikzain21
This document provides an overview of the political and constitutional phases of Pakistan from 1988 to 2014. It discusses the tenures of multiple prime ministers including Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, and Yousaf Raza Gillani. It also covers constitutional amendments, presidential elections, and the transition to civilian rule under Pervez Musharraf. Key events included the dismissal of Benazir Bhutto's government in 1990, nuclear tests in 1998, and the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007.
Political And Constitutional Phases Of Pakistan 1999 Onward Sultana Jamil
- In 1999, the military again took power in Pakistan led by General Pervez Musharraf. He served as president from 2002-2007.
- Notable events during his rule included the 2001 Agra Summit with India, establishment of local governments, and Pakistan allying with the US after 9/11.
- Civilian rule was restored in 2002 with elections, though Musharraf remained president. Zafarullah Jamali became prime minister in 2002.
- Shaukat Aziz succeeded Jamali as prime minister in 2004. An earthquake killed over 80,000 Pakistanis in 2005. Political crisis grew in 2007 over Musharraf's plans.
- Asif Ali Zardari became president in
The document summarizes the 1970 elections in West and East Pakistan. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a majority of seats in the National Assembly, capturing 167 out of 313 total seats. Their platform centered around Mujibur Rahman's six point program. Meanwhile, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party won 88 seats from the western wing. Tensions arose after the election as Mujibur Rahman demanded a central role for Dhaka, while Bhutto refused to form a government without his party's cooperation. This created challenges for the military leader Yahya Khan.
The document discusses inter-caste marriage in India. It provides details on the Special Marriage Act of 1954, which allows and governs inter-caste marriages. Key points include:
1) The Special Marriage Act established a civil contract for marriage that does not require religious rites or ceremonies, allowing people from different religions and castes to marry.
2) Parties must file a notice of intended marriage and wait 30 days before solemnizing the marriage at a specified marriage office in front of witnesses.
3) Inter-caste marriages make up only about 11% of marriages in India according to research, but are more common in urban areas and Mumbai in particular.
This document provides background information on Afghanistan between 1947-1978. It discusses the rule of Sardar Shah Mahmud Khan and his successor Mohammad Daoud Khan. Daoud Khan aligned Afghanistan with the Soviet Union and received significant economic and military aid. However, he grew disillusioned with democracy and communism. Rival coup plotters emerged, including Islamists and Marxist groups. Daoud Khan launched a coup in 1973, ending the Afghan monarchy but angering the Marxist PDPA. On April 27, 1978 the PDPA, with Soviet support, launched the Saur Revolution, establishing a communist government and beginning the Sovietization of Afghanistan. Daoud Khan and his family were killed in the process.
ECONOMICAL REFORMS
Savings and Investments
Human capital development
Agriculture
Dams
Women Empowerment
1.Gross domestic product
Increased from $60billion to $170 billion
2.Domestic and foreign investements
Increased from $60 billion to $170billion
3.Exports
Tripled form $7billion to $22 billion
4.International trade
Increased from $20 billion to $60 billion
The document summarizes the political events in Pakistan surrounding Ali Bhutto and the imposition of martial law in 1977. It discusses how Bhutto tried to establish democracy and reduce the military's role after previous periods of military rule. However, opposition protests and violence following a disputed election led the military to intervene and detain Bhutto. The document also outlines the legal challenges to Bhutto's detention, with his wife Nusrat Bhutto filing a habeas corpus petition in the Supreme Court.
General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq enforced martial law for the third time in Pakistan's history after overthrowing Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's government in a 1977 coup. Zia promised to hold elections within 90 days but later postponed them and started an accountability process against politicians. Zia assumed the presidency in 1978 and introduced an advisory body called Majlis-e-Shoora while remaining the ultimate authority. Zia was elected president in a 1984 referendum and held non-party elections in 1985, increasing his powers through a constitutional amendment. Zia dissolved the national assembly and removed the prime minister in 1988, promising again to hold elections, but died in a plane crash before doing so.
Justice for women cannot come from minds shaped by capitalismRizky Faisal
This document summarizes the situation of violence against women in Turkey and argues that justice for women cannot come from capitalist systems that separate religion and state. It outlines various legal changes and policies enacted in Turkey over the past few decades aimed at protecting women, yet violence against women has continued to increase. The document asserts that only by reestablishing the Islamic Khilafah system can true justice and protection for women be achieved, as it ensured women's rights and safety for over 13 centuries. It calls on Muslims to support reestablishing the Khilafah rather than appealing to the current secular Turkish state.
Egypt women final_english Relation Sandro Suzart SUZART GOOGLE INC Uni...Sandro Suzart
relationship between Sandro Suzart SUZART GOOGLE INC and United States on Demonstrations 2013 and Impeachments of 22 governments Relation, Sandro Suzart, SUZART, GOOGLE INC, United States on Demonstrations countries IMPEACHMENT GOOGLE INC
For just over half of its 64 years of independence, Pakistan has been ruled by its powerful military. Democratically elected governments have struggled to complete their terms, being alternately dismissed by presidents or removed from power by army chiefs.
Indeed, only one parliament has ever completed its five-year term - and it was headed by General Pervez Musharraf, a military dictator, as both president and army chief.
His government according to Universal Decleration of Human Rights.
Economic Empowerment of WOmen in Pakistan-Vi-UNCTAD feb 2016 (2)Aisha Siddiqui
1) Women represent 49% of Pakistan's population but face challenges in the workforce due to social and cultural factors as well as lack of skills and opportunities. 2) To support women entrepreneurs, SMEDA established Women Business Incubation Centers in several cities that provide office space, training, counseling, and networking opportunities. 3) An evaluation found the centers were successful in facilitating over 25,000 women entrepreneurs, generating millions in investments, and helping businesses export products abroad.
The study of Citizens’ Political Empowerment under ICT penetrationAli Pirannejad
This study examines how increased access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) affects citizens' political empowerment in a society. Sixteen scholars were interviewed on how ICTs impact political engagement. The results identified six ways ICTs can empower citizens politically: 1) increased access to digital information, 2) new ways to interact with political parties, 3) use of virtual social networks, 4) increased digital public oversight, 5) citizens taking on digital advisory roles, and 6) new forms of digital public decision making. The paper analyzes each factor's influence on political empowerment.
The document summarizes Pakistani political history from 1988-2008, including periods of democratic rule and military rule. It discusses the tenures of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif as Prime Ministers from 1988-1990, 1990-1993, 1993-1996, and 1997-1999. It also covers the military rule of Pervez Musharraf from 1999-2007. Key events included Zia-ul-Haq's death in 1988, various elections and dismissals of Bhutto and Sharif's governments, and periods of caretaker rule.
The document discusses the political system and role of religion in Pakistan. It provides background on Pakistan's history and establishment as an Islamic nation. Islam is deeply ingrained in Pakistan's identity, with 97% of the population identifying as Muslim. The constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic republic and requires laws to be aligned with Islamic principles. However, the role of Islam remains controversial, as an overemphasis on religious ideology has weakened national unity. Military rule also exacerbated religious fundamentalism, complicating Pakistan's ability to function as a modern state.
Every Act of the Parliament commences with a preamble which consists of the introductory words “An Act to……†followed by words briefly describing its objects. The preamble of a statute may be relied upon as aid to the understanding of the meaning thereof or for determining general object and intention of the Parliament in passing the enactment, but the preamble cannot control the express clear language and sweep of the operating provisions of such an instrument. When the language, object and the scope of the Act are not open to doubt, the enacting part cannot be restricted, extended or modified, by reference either to the title or preamble. Preamble is evidence of thought process of representatives. The practice of inserting elaborate preambles in Acts of the parliament has not disappeared and it is now regarded as well settled law that a preamble neither cuts down nor restricts, nor extends, nor enlarges the enacting part, when the language, scope and objf such part are clear and unambiguous. According to the preamble, this is an act to provide for more effective protection of the rights of women. Geetika Sood | Avrida Jan ""Object and Reasons of Domestic Violence Act"" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-4 , June 2019,
URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd24052.pdf
Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/law-and-management/24052/object-and-reasons-of-domestic-violence-act/geetika-sood
Benazir Bhutto served two non-consecutive terms as Prime Minister of Pakistan, from 1988 to 1990 and 1993 to 1996. However, both of her governments were plagued by problems and ultimately dismissed. She faced opposition from Nawaz Sharif and accusations of corruption. Her governments lacked majority support in most provinces beyond Sindh. Both of her administrations were dismissed before completing their terms, the first time due to corruption charges and the second for corruption and nepotism.
Democratic experience of benazir bhutto (in two terms)WajeehaGull1
This document is an assignment on the democratic experience of Benazir Bhutto during her two terms as Prime Minister of Pakistan. It provides biographical information on Bhutto and outlines her political career, including becoming the first female Prime Minister after the death of Zia-ul-Haq in 1988. The document discusses Bhutto's vision, her fight against dictatorship and terrorism, and developmental programs and challenges during her 1988-1990 and 1993-1996 terms. It also notes Bhutto's inspiration and commitment to democratic values and processes in Pakistan.
Constitutions and political crisis in pakistan (1947-2014)Tallat Satti
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1947-56)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1957-72)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1973-88)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan (1989-2000)
Constitutional and political crisis in Pakistan(2001-2014)
This document summarizes a study on Zimbabwean women's involvement in conflict transformation, peacebuilding, and political transitions. It outlines how Zimbabwean women have long played an active role in the country's politics, from fighting colonialism to advocating for women's rights after independence. While important laws were adopted early on to promote women's rights, political polarization and economic crisis from 2000-2008 weakened the women's movement. However, women remained engaged in struggles for equal rights and constitutional reforms. The study examines women's experiences with violence, their participation in politics and peace processes, and challenges faced in advocating for women's issues in Zimbabwe.
Political and constitutional phases of pakisatan 1988-OnwardMalikzain21
This document provides an overview of the political and constitutional phases of Pakistan from 1988 to 2014. It discusses the tenures of multiple prime ministers including Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, and Yousaf Raza Gillani. It also covers constitutional amendments, presidential elections, and the transition to civilian rule under Pervez Musharraf. Key events included the dismissal of Benazir Bhutto's government in 1990, nuclear tests in 1998, and the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007.
Political And Constitutional Phases Of Pakistan 1999 Onward Sultana Jamil
- In 1999, the military again took power in Pakistan led by General Pervez Musharraf. He served as president from 2002-2007.
- Notable events during his rule included the 2001 Agra Summit with India, establishment of local governments, and Pakistan allying with the US after 9/11.
- Civilian rule was restored in 2002 with elections, though Musharraf remained president. Zafarullah Jamali became prime minister in 2002.
- Shaukat Aziz succeeded Jamali as prime minister in 2004. An earthquake killed over 80,000 Pakistanis in 2005. Political crisis grew in 2007 over Musharraf's plans.
- Asif Ali Zardari became president in
The document summarizes the 1970 elections in West and East Pakistan. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a majority of seats in the National Assembly, capturing 167 out of 313 total seats. Their platform centered around Mujibur Rahman's six point program. Meanwhile, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party won 88 seats from the western wing. Tensions arose after the election as Mujibur Rahman demanded a central role for Dhaka, while Bhutto refused to form a government without his party's cooperation. This created challenges for the military leader Yahya Khan.
The document discusses inter-caste marriage in India. It provides details on the Special Marriage Act of 1954, which allows and governs inter-caste marriages. Key points include:
1) The Special Marriage Act established a civil contract for marriage that does not require religious rites or ceremonies, allowing people from different religions and castes to marry.
2) Parties must file a notice of intended marriage and wait 30 days before solemnizing the marriage at a specified marriage office in front of witnesses.
3) Inter-caste marriages make up only about 11% of marriages in India according to research, but are more common in urban areas and Mumbai in particular.
This document provides background information on Afghanistan between 1947-1978. It discusses the rule of Sardar Shah Mahmud Khan and his successor Mohammad Daoud Khan. Daoud Khan aligned Afghanistan with the Soviet Union and received significant economic and military aid. However, he grew disillusioned with democracy and communism. Rival coup plotters emerged, including Islamists and Marxist groups. Daoud Khan launched a coup in 1973, ending the Afghan monarchy but angering the Marxist PDPA. On April 27, 1978 the PDPA, with Soviet support, launched the Saur Revolution, establishing a communist government and beginning the Sovietization of Afghanistan. Daoud Khan and his family were killed in the process.
ECONOMICAL REFORMS
Savings and Investments
Human capital development
Agriculture
Dams
Women Empowerment
1.Gross domestic product
Increased from $60billion to $170 billion
2.Domestic and foreign investements
Increased from $60 billion to $170billion
3.Exports
Tripled form $7billion to $22 billion
4.International trade
Increased from $20 billion to $60 billion
The document summarizes the political events in Pakistan surrounding Ali Bhutto and the imposition of martial law in 1977. It discusses how Bhutto tried to establish democracy and reduce the military's role after previous periods of military rule. However, opposition protests and violence following a disputed election led the military to intervene and detain Bhutto. The document also outlines the legal challenges to Bhutto's detention, with his wife Nusrat Bhutto filing a habeas corpus petition in the Supreme Court.
General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq enforced martial law for the third time in Pakistan's history after overthrowing Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's government in a 1977 coup. Zia promised to hold elections within 90 days but later postponed them and started an accountability process against politicians. Zia assumed the presidency in 1978 and introduced an advisory body called Majlis-e-Shoora while remaining the ultimate authority. Zia was elected president in a 1984 referendum and held non-party elections in 1985, increasing his powers through a constitutional amendment. Zia dissolved the national assembly and removed the prime minister in 1988, promising again to hold elections, but died in a plane crash before doing so.
Justice for women cannot come from minds shaped by capitalismRizky Faisal
This document summarizes the situation of violence against women in Turkey and argues that justice for women cannot come from capitalist systems that separate religion and state. It outlines various legal changes and policies enacted in Turkey over the past few decades aimed at protecting women, yet violence against women has continued to increase. The document asserts that only by reestablishing the Islamic Khilafah system can true justice and protection for women be achieved, as it ensured women's rights and safety for over 13 centuries. It calls on Muslims to support reestablishing the Khilafah rather than appealing to the current secular Turkish state.
Egypt women final_english Relation Sandro Suzart SUZART GOOGLE INC Uni...Sandro Suzart
relationship between Sandro Suzart SUZART GOOGLE INC and United States on Demonstrations 2013 and Impeachments of 22 governments Relation, Sandro Suzart, SUZART, GOOGLE INC, United States on Demonstrations countries IMPEACHMENT GOOGLE INC
For just over half of its 64 years of independence, Pakistan has been ruled by its powerful military. Democratically elected governments have struggled to complete their terms, being alternately dismissed by presidents or removed from power by army chiefs.
Indeed, only one parliament has ever completed its five-year term - and it was headed by General Pervez Musharraf, a military dictator, as both president and army chief.
His government according to Universal Decleration of Human Rights.
Economic Empowerment of WOmen in Pakistan-Vi-UNCTAD feb 2016 (2)Aisha Siddiqui
1) Women represent 49% of Pakistan's population but face challenges in the workforce due to social and cultural factors as well as lack of skills and opportunities. 2) To support women entrepreneurs, SMEDA established Women Business Incubation Centers in several cities that provide office space, training, counseling, and networking opportunities. 3) An evaluation found the centers were successful in facilitating over 25,000 women entrepreneurs, generating millions in investments, and helping businesses export products abroad.
The study of Citizens’ Political Empowerment under ICT penetrationAli Pirannejad
This study examines how increased access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) affects citizens' political empowerment in a society. Sixteen scholars were interviewed on how ICTs impact political engagement. The results identified six ways ICTs can empower citizens politically: 1) increased access to digital information, 2) new ways to interact with political parties, 3) use of virtual social networks, 4) increased digital public oversight, 5) citizens taking on digital advisory roles, and 6) new forms of digital public decision making. The paper analyzes each factor's influence on political empowerment.
This document discusses the political empowerment of women. It provides historical examples of when women were first granted voting rights in different countries. It also examines current statistics on gender gaps and the low representation of women in politics in India. The document outlines some of the barriers women face in entering politics, such as patriarchal cultural norms, family responsibilities, and unfair party nomination processes. It concludes by highlighting several influential female world leaders throughout history.
Women in politics empowerment or tokenismMukul Saini
This document discusses political participation and empowerment. It covers three dimensions of empowerment: political, economic, and social. For political empowerment, the document examines the proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments globally. It also looks at the status of women in conservative countries and India compared to neighbors, noting that violence is used against women leaders who challenge patriarchal structures. The document asks whether India's political participation of women is true empowerment or just tokenism.
It is about the empowerment of women and how the women can get equality in the male dominated society. It will be the motivation to the women who is been struggling to come out and to be the better women in the future.
Workers' participation involves sharing decision-making power with employees in an appropriate manner to promote harmony between workers and management. It can take various forms from merely sharing information to involving workers in all strategic, policy, and operational issues. The major objectives of participation are to improve quality of work life by allowing greater influence for workers and to achieve industrial peace, efficiency, and productivity. Empowerment requires consistent support from top management and giving employees knowledge, skills, challenging work, and an opportunity to succeed in order to lead to organizational success.
Women empowerment refers to increasing women's spiritual, political, social, or economic strength. It often involves empowering women to develop confidence in their own abilities. In India, women face many issues such as high rates of child marriage, domestic violence, and lack of access to education and economic opportunities. Efforts toward empowering women in India include increasing access to education, self-employment opportunities, loans, and addressing basic needs like health, nutrition, and sanitation. Role models like Indira Gandhi and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw have helped empower women in India.
Obstacles to women's political empowerment include persistent gender stereotypes and institutional barriers. Stereotypes view women as unsuitable leaders or demand they excel at everything like a "wonder woman". Institutions also disadvantage women through a lack of training opportunities and male-dominated networks. Further, traditional gender roles that assign domestic responsibilities primarily to women prevent many from having time for political participation. Overcoming these obstacles requires challenging stereotypes and the gender division of labor to allow women equal opportunities in public life.
The document discusses empowerment and participation in organizations. Empowerment provides autonomy and control to employees through sharing information and job factors. It helps remove powerlessness while enhancing self-efficacy. There are five approaches to empowerment: helping employees achieve mastery, allowing more control, providing role models, using social reinforcement, and giving emotional support. Participation involves mental and emotional involvement to encourage contributing to goals and sharing responsibility. It improves motivation by helping employees understand goals. Prerequisites for effective participation include adequate time, benefits outweighing costs, relevance, abilities, and communication without threats. Benefits of participation include improved motivation and organizational effectiveness.
The document discusses the political empowerment of women in India. It begins by highlighting several influential women from Indian history and mythology. It then lists many famous Indian women from various fields such as politics, entertainment, sports, science, and business. The document notes that while the Indian constitution guarantees women's representation, they remain underrepresented in politics. It provides statistics on increasing but still low female representation in parliament over time. Finally, it argues that further empowering women politically requires strengthening support systems and overcoming social and cultural barriers that limit women's participation.
The document discusses empowerment and participation in organizations. It explains that empowerment involves giving employees greater autonomy through sharing information and control over job factors to improve self-efficacy. Participation means the mental and emotional involvement of employees through contribution and responsibility. When prerequisites are met, participation programs can benefit both employees and employers by increasing motivation, output, and communication. However, limitations include lack of management support and difficulties adjusting manager roles.
Abnormalities of hormones and inflammatory cytokines in women affected with p...Alexander Decker
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated levels of hormones like luteinizing hormone and testosterone, as well as higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance compared to healthy women. They also have increased levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin. This study found these abnormalities in the hormones and inflammatory cytokines of women with PCOS ages 23-40, indicating that hormone imbalances associated with insulin resistance and elevated inflammatory markers may worsen infertility in women with PCOS.
The document discusses women empowerment in India. It provides an overview of the current status of women in various areas such as economic participation, political empowerment, educational attainment, health and well-being. It notes that while laws and constitutional rights guarantee equality, in practice women face disadvantages. It outlines various government schemes and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women economically, politically, and socially. Key areas of focus include increasing women's participation in the workforce, education, politics, and addressing health and nutrition issues.
This document discusses modern management theories. It begins by defining modern management and management theories. It then outlines several prominent modern management theories, including the system approach, quantitative approach, total quality management approach, learning organization approach, team building theory, chaos theory, open system theory, and contingency theory. For each theory, it provides a brief overview and definition. The document focuses on explaining key aspects of several theories in more depth, such as total quality management, learning organizations, team building theory and related models like Belbin's team roles and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Overall, the document serves to outline and define several important modern management theories.
This presentation discusses concepts of women empowerment including its meaning and how it works. Empowerment refers to increasing the spiritual, political, social, or economic strength of individuals and communities. It involves developing confidence in one's own capacities. Women empowerment is the process by which women challenge gender-based discrimination and gain control over their own lives. The values of an empowered woman include improving personal knowledge, self-defining power, personal power, authenticity, creativity, physical strength, equality, mutuality in relationships, economic independence, women identification, freedom from oppression, and having political power in society. Women empowerment programs aim to create attitudinal changes and legal reforms to promote equal citizenship and decision-making power for women
The document discusses women empowerment, defining it as challenging patriarchal ideology and male dominance. It is the process of changing systematic forces that marginalize women. Empowerment involves decision-making power, access to resources, options/choices, assertiveness, positive thinking, skill development, changing others' perceptions, involvement in growth/changes, and positive self-image. It discusses crimes against women, pre-requisites for empowerment, facilitating/constraining factors, advantages, rights of women, and legislative acts supporting empowerment in India like quotas and laws against violence and discrimination. It also outlines government programs and policies aimed at economic, social, political, cultural, and educational empowerment of women.
ReadySetPresent (Empowerment PowerPoint Presentation Content): 100+ PowerPoint presentation content slides. Increasing empowerment in the workplace increases self-confidence, courage, and strength in each employee. Empowerment PowerPoint Presentation Content slides include topics such as: slides on a leader's role, 7 benefits of empowerment, empowerment in practice, various guidelines, 6 slides on empowered teams, 20+ tips for empowering employees, 9 rules of empowerment, 4 empowerment dimensions, building contracts with employees, 4 keys to assisting integration, 5 slides on building employee contracts, five types of empowerment, skills needed to empower, 7 slides on empowered decision making, 5 types of managerial control, 4 slides on when to empower, how to’s and more!
Fatima Jinnah devoted her life to serving Pakistan through both social and political work. As a social activist, she helped establish organizations to support women's rights and refugees after Partition. She opened schools and technical institutes to promote women's education and independence. Politically, she supported Pakistan's independence movement and later criticized undemocratic rule, working to strengthen democracy and the Muslim League. Throughout her career, she served as a role model for women and advocated for their education, empowerment, and full participation in national affairs.
This document contains information about women's participation in politics in India. It lists the names of group members at the top and then provides background on women's empowerment and the history of women's suffrage rights in India. It discusses current women leaders in politics and some challenges faced by women in achieving political representation, such as cultural norms and holding lesser cabinet positions. Quotas have been implemented in some states to increase women's political participation.
This document contains information about women's participation in politics in India. It lists the names of group members at the top and then provides background on women's empowerment and the history of women's suffrage in India. It discusses current women leaders in politics and some challenges faced by women in achieving political representation, such as cultural norms and holding lesser important roles. Quotas have been implemented in some states to increase women's political participation.
This document provides an overview of the political history of Pakistan. It outlines key events and leaders in Pakistan's history since independence in 1947. It discusses the different constitutions Pakistan has had and highlights some of their key features. It also profiles several major political parties in Pakistan and outlines their founding principles. The document then examines some of the common problems in Pakistani politics such as personality-based politics, feudalism, military takeovers, and lack of accountability. It provides a comparison of democracy and dictatorship in Pakistan and analyzes the merits and demerits of each system. Finally, it discusses periods of dictatorial rule in Pakistan under Ayub Khan, Zia-ul-Haq, and Musharraf.
Politics in Pakistan (All about Politics)Seerat Malik
Politics in Pakistan
History - Timeline (History at grace)
Major Parties
Problems of Pakistani Politics
Democracy vs. Dictatorship in Pakistan
Constitutions
Conclusion
Is women education a panacea for all social evils face in the society.Anna Varghese
The document discusses the status of women in different time periods throughout history. It notes that while women had a relatively high status in early Vedic times, their status declined in later periods. During medieval times, practices like sati and child marriage became common. While laws have been enacted to promote women's rights in modern India, many social issues like domestic violence, female feticide, and human trafficking continue to persist. Studies show that violence against women remains a significant global problem, and that existing efforts have not created lasting change in gender equality.
this presentation deals with the issue of political participation of women in India, need for political participation of women, steps taken by government and problems encountered by women
This is what Lincoln has to say about Democracy. The above statement of this great statesman says it all. A form of Government which is made for the people by the people around and it consist of the people from within. This is what Democracy is all about but it is not in the purest of its form at this moment. A huge total of 167 countries in the world are running under the form of Government which is called Democracy and Pakistan is one of those countries. Different types of democracies prevail in Pakistan at different times. The constitution of Pakistan is now a backing a Parliamentary form of Government but in the previous constitutions like 1962 and 1956, we had Presidential form of Government. The constitution at this moment is an amended version of 1973, which is following the Parliamentary form of Government. From the day of inception of Pakistan, the people are struggling for a better form of Government and they have selected Democracy as the best one. But it’s a misfortune for the people of Pakistan that the democracy could not continue for long and it is derailed off and on. Military rules have dented Pakistan’s Democracy 3 times in the history of just 65 years. People like Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto struggled a lot for the revival and sustainability of Democracy. This paper examines the causes and failure of democracy in Pakistan as well as It also highlights the Political history of Pakistan. This paper inspects the Challenges faced in Pakistan political history. It further analyzes some Steps for Restoration of True form of Democracy in Pakistan and Future of democracy in Pakistan.
The Changing Role and Legal Status of Women in IndiaIJARIIT
The document summarizes the changing role and legal status of women in India over time. It discusses how women had equal status in ancient India but their status declined over subsequent periods. Under British rule, reformers fought for women's rights and the constitution provides for equality and protections for women. However, crimes against women remain high, including dowry deaths, sexual harassment, and female infanticide. While laws have improved women's rights, social attitudes must also change to further empower women in India.
This document is an introduction to a collection of speeches by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto from 1970-1971 as Pakistan was transitioning from military rule to democracy. The introduction provides background on Ayub Khan resigning as President and handing power to General Yahya Khan. It then summarizes some of Bhutto's key speeches and policies during this time period, including advocating for Islamic socialism, opposing military rule, and campaigning for democracy and economic reforms to help the poor and working classes. Bhutto and his Pakistan People's Party swept elections in West Pakistan due to their message and inclusion of candidates from all classes.
This document is an introduction to a collection of speeches by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto from 1970-1971 as Pakistan was transitioning to democracy. It provides background on Ayub Khan resigning amid chaos and handing power to Yahya Khan, who declared martial law. It then summarizes that despite Yahya Khan's opposition, Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party swept polls in West Pakistan due to their message connecting with ordinary people. The introduction sets up that the document contains many of Bhutto's campaign speeches as he worked to educate the people about political and economic reforms, including Islamic Socialism which was part of the vision of Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
This document is an introduction to a collection of speeches by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto from 1970-1971 as Pakistan was transitioning from military rule to democracy. The introduction provides background on Ayub Khan resigning as President and handing power to General Yahya Khan. It then summarizes some of Bhutto's key speeches and policies during this time period, including advocating for Islamic socialism, opposing military rule, and campaigning for democracy and economic reforms to help the poor and working classes. Bhutto and his Pakistan People's Party swept elections in West Pakistan due to their message and inclusion of candidates from all classes.
The document summarizes the history of constitution making in Pakistan from its independence in 1947. It discusses how the first Constituent Assembly, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was tasked with drafting Pakistan's first constitution. Jinnah laid out important principles for the constitution, including protecting minorities and prohibiting corruption. However, Pakistan experienced frequent amendments and suspensions of its constitution over the decades as different regimes imposed martial law. The current constitution was drafted in 1973 but has also faced numerous amendments. The frequent changes to Pakistan's constitution have undermined its role as a stable, guiding document.
A Critical Analyses of the Constitutional Provisions for the Welfare and Deve...inventionjournals
The Constitution of India guaranteed different provisions for socio -economic and political development of all sections of people by enjoying all their potential and rights as a citizen. There is no distinction or difference among the people of the country in terms of law under the Constitution in India. But how far these provisions of the constitution are implemented or in what way these provisions are enjoying by the Indian citizen or what are the factors that disturbed to the fulfillment of these provisions etc are the questions that need to be studied in an academic way and that will have to transmit to the civil populac. This small paper is a humble attempt to discuss about the policies and programmes of the Government of India for the welfare and development of women, and the real position of women, who are facing different problems in the name of different customs, cultures, traditions etc.
1) Social class, status, and power have traditionally been predetermined by gender, with patriarchal societies granting men greater power and authority than women. Governments have designed laws to maintain this division of power, oppressing women.
2) While women's representation in politics has increased over time, men still dominate political leadership positions globally. However, women leaders like Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, Dilma Rousseff, and Joyce Banda have proven that women can successfully lead countries as presidents.
3) New Zealand politics have traditionally favored masculine traits of objectivity and neutrality over feminine traits of subjectivity and care. This patriarchal structure makes it difficult for the limited number of women MPs
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah played a pivotal role in achieving Pakistan. He began his political career in 1905 and worked tirelessly for Hindu-Muslim unity for decades as a member of the Indian National Congress. However, over time he grew disillusioned as the demands of the Muslim league were not adequately addressed. In 1929, he presented the famous Fourteen Points to guarantee Muslim political rights. Jinnah reorganized the Muslim League in the 1930s and transformed it into an influential organization. His historic 1940 address where he first demanded "Pakistan" is considered a milestone in the Pakistan movement. Through his dynamic leadership and political acumen, Jinnah succeeded in establishing Pakistan as an independent homeland for Muslims of
Major problems in Pakistan stem from issues surrounding religious identity and the role of Islam in the state. While Pakistan was envisioned as a democratic state that guaranteed equal rights and protections for all citizens regardless of religion, in practice religious minorities faced restrictions. Over time, military and conservative religious leaders have increasingly emphasized Islamic principles in the constitution and laws, prioritizing Islam over democracy and restricting the rights of religious minorities. This has led to an ongoing debate over Pakistan's national identity and whether it should be defined primarily in religious or geographic terms.
The document discusses the oppression of minorities in Pakistan. It notes that since Pakistan's inception, successive regimes have violated the rights of minorities as enshrined in international standards. Minorities like Hindus, Christians, Ahmadis and Shias have faced discrimination, violence and forced conversions. The root cause is a lack of enlightened leadership and the influence of extremist Islamic groups on politicians seeking power. However, liberal forces now have an opportunity in the upcoming elections to promote progressive values of democracy, pluralism and human rights by appealing to Pakistan's original syncretic traditions and sidelining corrupt political elements.
Introuction: The Representation of Religious Minorities in Pakistani Presskikampus
This document is a thesis that analyzes the representation of religious minorities in two major Pakistani newspapers, Daily Dawn and Daily Jang, over a three month period. It provides historical context on the treatment of religious minorities in Pakistan since its founding, including various discriminatory laws and constitutional amendments that have marginalized groups like Ahmadis, Christians, Hindus, and Zoroastrians. The thesis argues that as an important source of information, newspapers have a responsibility to give adequate and fair coverage to religious minority issues and communities in order to foster mutual understanding and respect between all citizens of Pakistan.
Women's Social Advocacy: An Increase in Institutional Participation Lucero Flores
Women in Iran have been advocating for increased social and political rights through various movements. While some women have gained positions in parliament and government, they often uphold conservative values. Grassroots organizations lead campaigns to gain women's suffrage and equality. Movements use social media and petitions to push for allowing women at sporting events and reforming discriminatory family laws. Supreme Leader Khamenei opposes reducing the role of hijab and increasing Western influence, posing structural barriers to women's advocacy. Younger generations of girls continue fighting for freedoms and cultural change through education and technology.
Women's Social Advocacy: An Increase in Institutional Participation
Artical 8
1. Political Empowerment of Women in Pakistan
Mrs. Asma Afzal Shami
“No nation can rise to the height of glory unless your
women are side by side with you; we are victims of evil
customs. It is crime against humanity that our women
are shut up within the four walls of the houses as
prisoners. There is no sanction anywhere for the
deplorable condition in which our women have to live.
You should take your women along with you as
comrades in every sphere of life.”
(Muhammad Ali Jinnah, 1944)
With the advent of the Pakistan Movement, women’s
participation in the freedom struggle became a dire necessity,
both for increasing the Muslim vote bank and for displaying
numerical strength at the Muslim League’s political rallies. In
1940 Mr. Jinnah announced, “Women are supposed to create a
sense of general political consciousness. They should stand
shoulder to shoulder with men in practical politics.”1 This saw
the removal of cultural and social restrictions on their traveling
for purposes of attending political gatherings. Unfortunately, in
spite of the Quaid’s personal views, 1948 saw an abrupt end to
this temporary political freedom. However, a few determined
women continued to play very important roles in the political
empowerment of the women of Pakistan. This article seeks to
record and eulogise their successes, while simultaneously
analyzing the effects of their failures on the body politic of
Pakistan.
The first such lady was Miss Fatima Jinnah who was an
inspiration to the women of Pakistan and continues to be held in
high esteem even today. She formed the Women’s Relief
Committee, which played a vital role in the settlement of
refugees in the new state of Pakistan.2 After the Quaid’s death,
2. 142 Pakistan Vision Vol 10 No 1
she assumed the mantle of the Protector of Public Interest. She
fearlessly pointed out the lapses of the rulers on a regular basis,
and continuously beckoned the Nation back to the Quaid’s
cherished principles. In 1964, after Khawaja Nazimuddin died,
the Combined Opposition Parties (COP) nominated Miss Jinnah
as their presidential candidate.3 By agreeing to challenge Field
Marshal Ayub Khan at the height of his dictatorial power, she
not only electrified the Nation, but also took a massive step
towards the political empowerment of women. This, one
courageous decision, raised the threshold of political ambitions
amongst the female politicians of the Subcontinent to the very
highest levels. It may well be worth researching what role her
decision may have had on motivating Mrs. Indira Gandhi to
become Prime Minister of India a few years later. Her
candidature also put an end to the knotty question of a woman’s
right to become the head of a Muslim State, as even the Jamat-i-
Islami gave her its grudging support, albeit under the concept of
it being “the need of the hour.”4 Surprisingly, the APWA and its
leaders, including Begum Raana Liaquat Ali Khan and Begum
Fida Hussain, opposed Miss Jinnah and actively campaigned for
President Ayub Khan.5 This was all the more unfortunate as
Begum Raana Liaquat Ali Khan had been taking a leading role
in women’s movement ever since the creation of Pakistan.
In 1948, in the immediate aftermath of Independence, two
very determined lady members of Pakistan’s Constituent
Assembly, Begum Shaista Ikram Ullah and Begum Jahan Ara
Shahnawaz, managed to achieve a phenomenal level of political
success for the women of Pakitan.6 Through dedicated and
focused hard work, they succeeded in getting the Muslim
Personal Law of Shariah passed under which women were
granted the right to inherit property, including agricultural land.7
The irony is that, even after this law became fully effective in
1951, it was seldom practiced, as it could not change the deep-
rooted male custom of denying this right to their women,
especially in the interior of the country. Although, in an even
greater irony, Islam had granted women the right to inherit
property fifteen hundred years earlier. Muslim men in the
subcontinent have continued to negate this as they feel they must
protect their property from falling under the control of the men
of another family into which their sisters and daughters were to
3. Political Empowerment of Women in Pakistan 143
be married. Therefore, the achievement of these two ladies was
truly phenomenal as they had debated and ensured the passage of
this law in an Assembly largely populated by the landed gentry,
in a country dominated by male chauvinism.
In 1955 Prime Minister Mohammad Ali Bogra took a second
wife,8 which instigated women organizations to launch a
campaign against his second marriage.9 The United Front for
Women’s Rights (UFWR) was formed under the leadership of
Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz. Under pressure from UFWR and
APWA, the Government formed a commission headed by the
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Mr. Justice Rashid, to study
the existing laws of marriage, divorce, maintenance and custody
of children and recommended modifications to bring them into
conformity with the dictates of Islam.10 The Rashid Commission
finalized its report in 1956, which included a detailed dissenting
note by its religious member Maulana Ehtesham ul Haq
Thanvi.11 As a result of sustained pressure and dissent from the
orthodox religious elements, the report was unfortunately
shelved.12 However, five years later it was to form the basis for
the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961.13
“Equality of status, equality of opportunity, equal pay for
equal work and guarantee of rights for Muslim women under the
Muslim Personal Law of Shariah” were apart of the Charter of
Women’s Rights, prepared by Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz.14
The Charter was passed by the Constituent Assembly with an
overwhelming majority, in spite of the fact that Mr. Zafarullah,
who was chairing the meeting, opposed the bill. It was his
contention that a newborn state could not afford this “luxury”,
especially as British Prime Minister even Mr. Churchill had
refused to agree to equal pay for equal work for women in
Britain.15 Therefore, the adoption of this charter was certainly a
great victory for both the lady parliamentarians in particular, and
the women of Pakistan in general.
However, the landmark legislation of that era was the
acceptance in the 1956 Constitution, of the principle of female
suffrage for the seats reserved for women, allocated on the basis
of special territorial constituencies. This, in effect granted
women dual voting rights – one for general seats and the other
for the reserved women’s seats.16 The importance and potential
of this right towards the political empowerment of women was
4. 144 Pakistan Vision Vol 10 No 1
apparently not fully grasped by the framers of our subsequent
constitutions. Hence it was abolished in the 1962 Constitution,
which replaced it with a system of indirect elections.17 This
stipulated that henceforth the elected members of the Assemblies
would elect women members for the reserved women seats. As
voting would obviously be on party lines, women candidates
would therefore be selected by their party bosses rather than
elected by their real constituents i.e. the women of Pakistan. This
in fact turned women members into “token representatives”.18
Unfortunately, this concept of indirect elections was retained in
the 1973 Constitution.19
During the 1970 Election campaign, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto
emerged as the clear front runner in the Punjab and Sind,
particularly among the poorer segment of civil society. His
message had a special fascination for women who were
encouraged to believe that, in a PPP regime that would provide
“Roti, Kapra aur Makaan,” they too could develop as dignified
human beings in their own right.20 Thus, for the first time,
women voted for the candidates of their own choice, irrespective
of their husband’s desires. This was a big step in the political
empowerment of women at the grass roots level.21
On assuming power in December 1970, Mr. Bhutto gave top
priority to drafting a new constitution. Begum Nasim Jahan and
Begum Ashraf Abbasi were the two lady members of the
Constitution Committee who played the same role that Begum
Jahan Ara Shahnawaz and Begum Shaista Ikram Ullah had
played in 1956.22 It was largely due to their efforts that the 1973
Constitution brought about greater gender equality, declaring all
citizens to be equal before the law and stipulating that there
would be no discrimination on the basis of race, religion, caste or
sex for appointment in the service of Pakistan. It also guaranteed
reserved seats for women in Local Bodies and mandated that
steps be taken to ensure the participation of women in all spheres
of national life. As a result, women now entered those superior
services from which they had hitherto been barred such as the
CSP and the Foreign Service.23
However, as mentioned earlier, in spite of forceful demands
put forward by APWA and other women organizations, and a
determined effort made by Begum Nasim Jahan in the National
Assembly, the principle of female suffrage for the reserved
5. Political Empowerment of Women in Pakistan 145
women’s seats, was not revived in the 1973 Constitution.
Bhutto’s Law Minister, Mr. Abdul Hafeez Peerzada, felt that as
in the past the political parties had been unable to find suitable
female candidates beyond the big cities, an election based on
female suffrage would produce unhealthy results. He was also
influenced by the fact that, although women had played a
remarkable role in the 1970 Election Campaign, none of them
was able to get elected. In his view this proved that the better
category of women politicians were adverse to fighting a direct
election. He therefore thought that the interests of women would
be best served by a system of indirect elections, which would
attract a better breed of women politicians.24 However, Begum
Nasim Jahan was of the view that as the electorate for this
indirect form of elections (or more appropriately the nominating
authority) would comprise entirely of males, the women
parliamentarians would be reduced to being mere token
representatives.25
The period of Gen Zia’s Martial Law, which followed after
the overthrow of Mr. Bhutto, was a rather lean period for women
politicians. In fact, after the Bhutto ladies had been forced to
leave the Country, women politicians seemed to have virtually
disappeared from the landscape. However, in the wake of the
promulgation of the Hadood Ordinances, this vacuum was filled
by a class of educated women activists who had emerged to form
pressure groups committed to protecting women’s rights. These
laws, wittingly or unwittingly, reduced the legal status of women
through the Qanoon-e-Shahadat on the one hand, and virtually
tyrannized them by the faulty interpretation of the Zina
Ordinance on the other hand.26 Whereas the first barred them
from giving evidence in cases of rape, qazf, bodily harm or
property, the second resulted in a rape victim being jailed for
Zina unless she could produce four Muslim male witnesses to
prove that she had been raped.27 Thus was born the Women’s
Action Forum (WAF), which continues to be active even today
in its struggle for ensuring basic rights for women.28
Although, relatively speaking, the Musharraf era proved to
be a political boom for the women of Pakistan, unfortunately it
also did not restore the principle of female suffrage for women’s
reserved seats on the basis of special territorial constituencies as
envisaged in the 1956 Constitution. The effects of this lapse can
6. 146 Pakistan Vision Vol 10 No 1
best be judged by an analysis of the elections held in 2002.
Although Gen. Musharraf very boldly increased the number of
reserved women’s seats to an unprecedented 20% in the
Assemblies29 and 33% in the Local Bodies, reportedly as many
as 31% of the women in NWFP, Baluchistan and Southern
Punjab were not allowed by their men to vote.30 If the principle
of women voting for the reserved women’s seats had been
included in the LFO, even MMA Party leaders would have been
“encouraged” to ensure that their womenfolk went out and voted
for MMA women candidates. The alternative would have been to
surrender the 20% reserved women seats to their rival parties.
This would also have had the advantage of making candidates
for the reserved women’s seats accountable to their women
voters, thus forcing the candidates to devise political agendas
conductive to resolving women’s problems and helping them to
achieve their due rights.31 In other words, women’s demands
would have been presented and fought for in the assemblies by
women parliamentarians, who would have had to demonstrate
their dedication and record on women issues as an essential
requirement for seeking re-election.32 This would have been in
stark contrast to the position that has persisted ever since the
abrogation of the 1956 Constitution, whereby women
parliamentarians have been beholden to their party leaders, who
have virtually “nominated” them for occupying the reserved
women seats.33 Thus, even today, their political subjugation has
not been fully eliminated. It is worth pondering whether women
parliamentarians would have allowed themselves to be
manipulated into behaving with such lack of decorum, as was
witnessed during May 2003 in the Punjab Assembly, if they had
been directly elected and did not have to do their master’s
bidding.34
However, all said and done, women owe a lot to Gen
Musharraf. Besides the increase in reserved women seats in the
Assemblies from 2 to 20% women now also constitute 33% of
the Union, Tehsil and District Councils.35 In addition, many
women have been sent as ambassadors to various countries.
These are very bold and positive steps that herald the beginning
of a whole new chapter in the political participation of women in
Pakistan. It is now incumbent upon the women parliamentarians
to take meaningful steps for gaining a deeper understanding of
7. Political Empowerment of Women in Pakistan 147
women’s issues and problems. As this knowledge and awareness
increases, it is hoped that women parliamentarians will rise
above party affiliations and gravitate towards forming an “intra
party bond” for jointly devising appropriate measures in support
of women’s rights. This would be the most effective way of
enhancing the political empowerment of women, as envisaged
by President Musharraf in his inaugural address to the National
Conference on Women’s Political Participation in January
2003,36 where he had stated that, “The women members of the
Assemblies must rise beyond party affiliations… influence
decision-making… (and) become effective in legislation to
ensure that no law detrimental to their rights and interests is
passed.” It is heartening to note that subsequent development in
the Punjab Assembly, where women members of the Opposition
broke ranks with their male colleagues and joined their female
counterparts from the Treasury Benches in supporting the
provisions of the Punjab Prevention of Domestic Violence Bill,
2003.37 Similarly, the subsequent passage of the Honour Killing
Act and Women Protection Act (that has considerably reduced
the anti women bias of the Hadood Ordinances) have helped
bring to surface a new breed of women politicians such as Sherry
Rehman PPP, Nilofar Bakhtiar PML(Q), Kashmala Tariq
PML(Q) and Fauzia Wahab PPP. Their roles in the passage of
these Acts have definitely proved that there is light at the end of
the tunnel.
Notes and References
1. Khawar Mumtaz and Farida Shaheed, Women of
Pakistan: Two Steps forward, One Step back? Lahore
1987, Khalid Imran Printers, p-49
2. All the leading daily newspapers covered Miss Fatima
Jinnah’s social work and political activities. Dawn
newspaper specially carried a detailed coverage of her
efforts to help settle the refugees specially the women
and children.
8. 148 Pakistan Vision Vol 10 No 1
3. Hamid Yousaf, Pakistan in search of Democracy
1947-77, Lahore 1980, Published by Afrasia
Publications, Printed by Rippon Printing Press, p.71.
4. The question that can a Muslim woman become the
head of the state was discussed in almost all the
leading dailies of the country at the time when Miss
Jinnah was being considered for the candidature of
Presidentship. Maulana Moududi, a leading religious
scholar, initially declared that it was unislamic for a
woman to become the head of an Islamic state. Later
he opted to second Miss Fatima Jinnah;s candidate,
calling it “the need of the hour”.
5. Dawn, November, 28. 1964.
6. Jehanara Shahnawaz, Father and Daughter: A
Political Autobiography, New York 2002, Oxford
University Press, p-256.
7. Anis Mirza, “Women’s Role in the Pakistan
Movement and the Formative Years” Paper read in the
Soroptomist Club Seminar, “Women in Public Life”
October, 1972 Lahore, p.4.
8. Nabeela Afzal, Women and Parliament in Pakistan
1947-1977, Lahore 1999, Pakistan Study Centre,
University of the Punjab, p-63.
9. Ibid. p.63.
10. Fareeda Shaheed and Khawar Mumtaz, “Two Steps
Forward, One Step Back”, p.56.
11. See the Report in the Gazette of Pakistan, August, 30.
1956.
12. Ibid. August, 30. 1956.
9. Political Empowerment of Women in Pakistan 149
13. See the text of the Ordinance in the Gazette of
Pakistan (Extraordinary), March, 2. 1961.
14. Begum Nasim Jehan, Status of Women in Pakistan,
(Part II) unpublished paper, 1976, p.14.
15. Anis Mirza, “Women’s Role in the Pakistan
Movement and the Formative Years”, paper read in the
Soroptomist Club Seminar “Women in Public Life,
October, 1972 Lahore” p.4. This Front was
particularly active in Karachi, which was then the
Capital of Pakistan.
16. Jehanara Shahnawaz, op. cit., p.140.
17. Constitutional Documents Vol. III Articles 162 and
169.
18. Begum Nasim Jehan was a great advocate of women
suffrage for women candidates on reserved seats. Her
argument was that women would be elected to
represent the females. Her arguments are recorded in
NACD, Vol. I No. 33, April, 7. 1973. p.2175-76.
19. Safdar Mahmood, “Constitutional Foundation”, p.805-
920.
20. Shahid Javed Burki Pakistan Under Bhutto 1971-
1977, p.51-130.
21. Fareeda Shaheed and Khawar Mumtaz, Two Steps
Forward, One Step Back, p.62.
22. Ibid p.63.
23. Safdar Mahmood, Constitutional Foundation, p.805-
920.
24. NACD Vol. I, No. 33, April, 7. 1973, p.2178-79
10. 150 Pakistan Vision Vol 10 No 1
25. Nabeela Afzal, Women and Parliament in Pakistan,
1947-77, p.34.
26. Fareeda Shaheed and Khawar Mumtaz, Two Steps
Forward One Step Back, p.119.
27. Ibid. p.112.
28. Ibid. p.74.
29. News, December, 22. 2002.
30. Dawn, May, 13. 2005.
31. News, August, 24. 2005.
32. Friday Times, March, 6. 2003.
33. NACD Vol. I, No. 33, April, 7. 1973, p.2175-76
34. Daily Times, May, 15. 2003.
35. To reserve seats for women from 2% to 20% in the
Assemblies and 33% in the Local Governments made
headlines in all the newspapers and news bulletin on
television. It was discussed in all the talk shows.
Everyone, even the political opponents praised the
President for this bold and much awaited step.
36. News, January 2003.
37. Daily Times, October, 22. 2003.