Issue 4 International Women Day Special: Shepreneurs from Pakistan Breaking the Bias
Message from Editor in Chief
According to World Economic Forum report based on four indicators: economic opportunity, political growth, training, health, and survival the gender global gap score was 68% in 2018 and 68.6 % in 2020. Moreover, in 2018, the wage gap was reported almost 51% and women in leadership positions were only 34%. Research data showed that only 13 % of healthcare CEOs are females. Although gender-based discrimination is a global issue but Pakistan needs special attention in terms of women’s empowerment. The country stands among the lowest in the world in terms of women’s empowerment, even though almost half of the population is women. The country is ranked almost at the bottom of the Gender Gap Index i.e. 151st of 153 along with a very low rate of female labor-force participation compared to their male counterparts (25% vs. 82%). In addition, adult women had less secondary-school education than males (26.7% vs. 47.3%). Only 1 % of the women represent entrepreneurs in Pakistan. Special initiatives should be taken to promote gender equity and women entrepreneurship in Pakistan.
This issue celebrates International Women Months acknowledging the efforts and achievements of women in Pakistan. The issue include article on history of International Women Day along with brief discussion on the current year’s theme and celebration activities around the world. The success stories of Pakistani women from diverse fields are also the part of the issue. Moreover, a detailed feature on a great women empowerment program i.e. The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) which is in fact a game changer for women entrepreneurs has been included. An article highlighting role of women from Islamic prospective is also included. Real stories from women breaking the societal stereotypes are also part of the issue.