WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS: UNPACKING BARRIERS AND HOPING CHANGE IN PAKISTANI POLITICS (2021–2024)

Abstract

This article explores challenges to women’s political leadership in Pakistani politics. Using an interview guide, data for this study come from women political activists. Feminist political intersectionality guided the methodological application of the study. Thematic analysis method and qualitative document analysis helped in the analysis of data. One finding of the study revealed some challenges to women’s political leadership, such as structural, sociocultural, and legal challenges. On the other side the study revealed hope among women political activists foreseeing their careers as leadership positions. This article suggests improving women’s participation in leadership positions that would lead to women’s political empowerment.