Despite constituting nearly half of Pakistan’s population, women account for only 5% of the federal government’s civilian workforce. According to the Pakistan Public Administration Research Centre, out of more than 1.2 million federal employees, only 49,508 are women. This stark underrepresentation persists despite a legally mandated 10% quota for female recruitment across all federal government services, including the Civil Superior Services.
The numbers reveal a systemic failure. Women face structural barriers at every stage – from recruitment and career progression to workplace culture. Gender biases in hiring and limited leadership opportunities create an environment where women are either discouraged from entering government service or pushed to the margins when they do. Even the few who break through often find themselves stuck in lower-tier roles, with little influence on decision-making.
Addressing this gender gap requires a combination of policy enforcement and workplace reforms to ensure that women are not just present in government but empowered within it. The first step is strict enforcement of the existing 10% quota. Many government departments fail to meet even this modest target, often citing a lack of female candidates. This excuse does not hold up under scrutiny as women are now excelling in education and the private sector, yet remain underrepresented in public service.
Recruitment policies must be revised to ensure transparency, with hiring authorities held accountable for meeting gender quotas. A central oversight body should monitor compliance, and penalties should be imposed on departments failing to implement the quota effectively.
A government that does not reflect its people cannot effectively serve them. And therefore ensuring women’s representation in public service is a prerequisite for a more inclusive and equitable Pakistan.
Editorial published in the Express Tribune on 7th February 2025