The Impact of Devolution on Women’s Empowerment in Pakistan: Insights and Implications
The devolution process in Pakistan, guided by the 18th Amendment, is set to transfer significant powers from the federal government to the provinces. This shift has sparked a debate about its potential impact on various sectors, including women’s development and higher education.
The Role of Devolution in Women’s Development
Women won’t be impacted by devolution in the same way they are not by higher education, which has historically only been under federal jurisdiction. The federal government has not been the only province that has been concerned with women’s development, if not more so. The Ministry of Women Development (MoWD) will be devolved in the third stage, or by June, according to reports citing Senator Raza Rabbani, who is overseeing the 18th Amendment’s implementation.
Provincial Bodies and the Need for Efficiency
Few would argue against this action because, similar to the adage “too many cooks spoil the broth,” having too many bodies performing one task does not always result in high productivity. Assuming the crucial role of a catalyst, lobbyist, and influencer to achieve the primary goal of women’s empowerment through gender mainstreaming, the Department of Women Development (DWD) in each province is already in place. The mission of the Sindh DWD is defined as follows.
Challenges Faced by MoWD
There are other types of issues that have hindered the MoWD’s operations in Islamabad. It operates more like a branch of the bureaucracy, has structural flaws, and is remote from women at large. Originally established in 1979 as a division, it was elevated to the rank of ministry in 1989 and given additional responsibility for social welfare and special education. Its main duty was to develop public policies that addressed the needs of women in society.
Implementing Cedaw: A Missed Opportunity
MoWD was tasked with seeing to it that the Convention for the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (Cedaw) was implemented after Pakistan ratified it in 1996. How well and successfully has it completed this task? I won’t get into gender-specific statistics because it would be unrealistic to expect a small group of MoWD bureaucrats to drastically improve women’s lives in a short period of time in a society where social prejudices rooted in centuries-old patriarchal mindsets have long plagued women.
The Role of NCSW in Women’s Rights
In that instance, one could reasonably wonder if Pakistan even needs a federal body to protect women’s rights. The necessary body already exists and shouldn’t be impacted by the devolution process, at least not in the long run. The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), a statutory and independent body mandated to review policies and programmes for women’s development and gender equality, was founded by a presidential ordinance in July 2000. In addition, it examines the laws, rules, and regulations that impact women’s status and rights and makes recommendations for their repeal, amendment, or new legislation that is necessary to advance their interests.
Strengthening the NCSW
The primary purpose of an independent agency is to act as a watchdog over the government’s policies concerning women. Across the globe, such commissions accomplish this. Its goal would be achieved if this organisation were to take on the role of an arm of the state.
Performance of the NCSW
Over time, the NCSW’s performance has changed. It was initially overseen by the MoWD, and a federal minister served as its chair. With Majida Rizvi as a steward, the NCSW was able to establish some independence and showed that she understood what was needed. It relocated from the ministry’s space and hired a few personal assistants.
Significant Achievements
Under Rizvi, the commission studied the Hudood Ordinances, which General Ziaul Haq left as a curse on Pakistani women. The Women Protection Act of 2006 was made possible after the NCSW vehemently advocated for the Hudood law’s repeal.
Future Directions and Challenges
Our women’s commission would perform better if it were strengthened even more, according to a study on women commissions in South Africa and India. Anis Haroon, a prominent figure in Pakistan’s women’s movement and the current chairperson of the NCSW, concurs. She has presented the cabinet with an amendment bill that gives the NCSW investigative authority. Additionally, it includes some structural changes that would give the commission full financial and administrative autonomy and put it under the prime minister’s direct control. This ought to make it easier for it to operate effectively.
Enhancing Investigative Powers
Inadequate investigation of crimes against women frequently results in women not receiving the justice they deserve. It might be possible to guarantee that the police carry out their duties effectively and fairly if the commission were given the authority to supervise that procedure. Haroon has not requested the judicial powers that India’s commission possesses. If the investigation is conducted honestly, in her opinion, her goal will be fulfilled.
Conclusion
The devolution process, driven by the 18th Amendment, holds significant implications for women’s development in Pakistan. While challenges persist, strengthening bodies like the NCSW and ensuring effective implementation of policies can pave the way for greater gender equality and empowerment.
