In Balochistan, a province steeped in traditions and grappling with modernity, women’s roles present a complex interplay of societal norms and evolving perspectives. Historically, women here have faced systemic oppression, their lives tightly woven within the confines of ultra-conservative ideologies. Deprived of fundamental rights such as education, freedom from violence, and equality, their societal role has often been limited to domestic spheres, and their worth gauged in relation to men. This patriarchal framework has been justified under the guise of religious and cultural norms, severely limiting women’s mobility, access to education, and workforce participation.
Despite these challenges, recent times have witnessed a gradual, yet discernible shift. A notable development is the Balochistan government’s efforts towards women’s integration into society and the workforce. The Balochistan Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Policy, 2020-2024, marks a significant step in this direction.
Launched with international support, this policy aims to improve gender integration in the public sector, aligning with global goals for gender equality. The Governance and Policy Project Balochistan, a key part of this initiative, is designed to bolster the provincial Women Development Department and the ombudsperson on workplace harassment, enabling them to effect change and mainstream women in the public sphere.
However, the reality remains stark. The literacy rate for women in Balochistan is a mere 33.5 percent, significantly lower than the national average. Additionally, the maternal mortality rate in the province is alarmingly high, reflecting the broader underdevelopment and gender disparities prevalent here. These statistics underscore the urgent need for sustained efforts to uplift women’s status in the region.
Amidst these societal struggles, Baloch women have carved a niche for themselves, particularly in the region’s struggle for rights and independence. Figures like Dadi Gahnwari Marri exemplify the resilience and strength of Baloch women. From leading protests to supporting men defending her community against aggression, the contributions have been vital in sustaining the region’s resistance. Her unwavering courage has left an indelible mark on Baloch’s history and continues to inspire a new generation of women.
Efforts toward women’s empowerment and status improvement are evident, particularly through feminist movements like the Aurat March. These initiatives aim to create an egalitarian society, addressing issues like sexual harassment, domestic violence, and unequal pay. However, challenges persist due to entrenched patriarchal norms.
While talking about Baloch women the Mekran Division is ahead of its time where the women take part in all work of life and they are being quoted as role models for the rest of the country in general and Baloch society in particular. Mekran division has topped Balochistan in literacy rate and ranked 8th on the national level as per the 2017 census. Mekran division has topped Balochistan as compared to Quetta, Zhob, Loralai, Naseerabad, Rakhshan, Kalat, and Sibi divisions. Similarly, Mekran ranked 8th on a national level in terms of literacy rate across Pakistan. Whereas, Kech district scored 62.66 %, while Panjgur 59.22 %, and Gwadar 51.97 % as per the 2017 census.
The remaining districts of Balochistan have performed very low as compared to other districts of the country. The women in Kech actively participate in holding sessions on sensitive topics like birth control and human rights including women’s right to protection against sexual harassment. It is important to explore how this emerging oasis of empowered women has come to be in the patriarchal desert of Balochistan.
This is an encouraging sign and it is led by Social Worker Ms. Zubaid Jalal (former Federal Minister, MNA), who in the early 1980s opened a school in her native village Mand (Kech District) for girls’ education which led to the enhancement of literacy rate amongst girls. Her efforts changed the social fabric of the whole region as now all three districts of Mekran have amongst the highest literacy rates in the province.
In recent times, a shift in some sections of Pashtun society in Baluchistan is visible. Women like Pari Gul Tareen and Farida Tareen have set precedents, challenging traditional norms. Despite these advancements, women’s literacy in Baluchistan remains low, with cultural factors and a lack of schools being significant barriers.
Political empowerment is also essential for women’s development in Baluchistan. However, cultural pressures often deter women from participating in politics, with family disownment being a significant threat.
The challenges faced by women in Baluchistan are deeply entrenched, but the emergence of strong female figures and progressive policies indicate a path toward greater empowerment and equality. The journey towards these goals is fraught with obstacles, but the determination and resilience of the women of Baluchistan, coupled with supportive governmental policies, herald a future where women can fully participate in all aspects of societal life.
In conclusion, while women in Baluchistan face significant societal challenges, their journey is marked with resilience and hope. The evolving societal landscape, marked by increased awareness and government initiatives, points towards a future where women in Baluchistan can claim their rightful place in society, contributing equally and freely to its socio-economic and cultural development.
Mir Behram Baloch is a journalist and a social activist who extensively writes on topics related to Human Rights, Women’s Rights, and marginalized segments of society.