The Socio- political Impact of Increased Women’s Representation in National Assembly on their Economic Growth in Pakistan

Abstract

This research aims to explore the perception of educated urban women of Lahore about the relationship between women's socio-political participation and their economic development in Pakistan. The research uses a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from a survey of 40 educated urban women in Lahore with qualitative insights gained from three semi-structured interviews with female professionals working as an entrepreneur, civil servant, and female political worker. Majority of the women who were a part of the study strongly believed it is important to give women fair representation in politics if we want to have balanced economic policies that can help women become financially independent. Most respondents felt that even with enhanced visibility within political institutions, women in Pakistan still encounter both structural and cultural obstacles that play a negative role in their ability to gain economic independence. The semi structured interviews shed light on the subtle but persistent male dominated hierarchies in socio-political hierarchies that sometimes lead to restricted access to women of Pakistan in the decision-making processes. The study draws the conclusion that even though women have gained visibility in the National Assembly of Pakistan, they are still facing several obstacles in their road towards economic independence. Real economic transformation can only arise if institutional reforms are made that integrate gender inclusivity into governance structures. Policy implications encompass the expansion of gender-responsive budgeting, the enhancement of women's political literacy and mentorship initiatives, and the promotion of equitable access to fiscal and developmental policymaking.