From Law to Practice: Evaluating Gender Equality Policies in Pakistan and their Contribution to SDG 5

Abstract

The paper discusses the effectiveness of the implementation of gender equality policies and laws in practice. It examines the discrepancy in legal obligations and utilization as well as social, cultural and institutional challenges to gender equality in Pakistan. Promoting gender equality is a key human rights concern, and crucial to social and economic development. In this article, a qualitative, policy evaluation approach has been used for examining the key gender equality laws and policies, evaluating their effectiveness in practice with Pakistan and study their direct or indirect contribution to SDG 5 targets. The findings show that the gender equality policy and legislation of Pakistan is progressive and consistent with SDG 5, however its implementation at the ground level is weak, fragmented in institutional implementation and hampered by patriarchal norms thereby reducing its effectiveness at stopping women's rights and empowerment at the ground level. The government of Pakistan should introduce s laws and policies to promote women's rights and decrease gender discrimination in education, employment, and political participation.