Performing their duties has never been easy for women journalists in Pakistan. This is partly on account of the overall state of women empowerment in the society. While empowerment of women has been a key objective of several interventions in recent years, especially on terms of legislation, a lot still needs to be done in this regard.

Women journalists have always been on the forefront in this struggle. They have also taken an active part in various civil society-led movements. They have also highlighted the importance of enhancing women’s role in public sphere as one of the major instruments to ensure women’s overall social, economic and political empowerment.

Despite the challenges they face, women journalists in Pakistan have been writing some of the most remarkable tales of a successful struggle. They have successfully expanded their space in the mainstream media. This development has coincided with the heartening fact that women are increasingly assuming leadership and decision-making roles in various walks of life.

The journey is remarkable because women face a number of challenges in all parts of Pakistan. The hurdles hamper their economic empowerment and stop them from achieving their full potential.

The major issues pertaining to economic development that women and girls face in Pakistan include: lack of income generating activities, limited access to decent employment, discrimination in wages, lack of access to the market and unpaid and unrecognised work at home.

The adverse impacts of climate change on the lives of women and girls, especially in the rural settings, have also increased the level of their economic deprivation.

Another factor that contributes to women’s disempowerment is gender based violence. Statistics show that the numbers of women subject to violence is alarmingly large. Besides, the general anti-women behaviours and stereotypes prevalent in the society discourage many women from active and effective participation in social, political and economic activities. This adds to their marginalisation.

The Covid-19 pandemic has multiplied the existing hardships of women, especially for working women through reduced mobility and fewer economic activities.

It is good to see, however, that despite facing all these challenges, women and girls in Pakistan in some areas have shown a great deal of resilience. Many have become role models by overcoming the obstacles and challenges.

Political participation by women has improved gradually over the years. It is argued that progress in women development and political participation must be inclusive and women from religious minorities and women with disabilities should also be encouraged to come forward and play their active role.

The major issues that women face in Pakistan pertaining to economic development include: lack of income generating activities, limited access to decent employment, discrimination in wages and lack of access to the market.

Removing barriers for effective participation of women in all spheres of life is particularly important now. The measures need to be taken at every level to strengthen political, social, and economic development of the women. The role of women in the decision-making needs to be strengthened.

This agenda for women empowerment in Pakistan cannot be advanced without the active role of women journalists. They have dealt with the unprecedented situation resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic. The new problems they have been facing after the outbreak of the pandemic almost two years ago include issues pertaining to reduced mobility, lack of transport facilities and unhealthy work environments.

Stress management at home and workplace also requires a lot of patience while often dealing with additional tasks at home besides a permanent fear of catching the virus. Women journalists have not only managed to respond to challenges at the personal level but have also continued to contribute to positive journalism, especially by covering stories containing pandemic-related information and awareness raising messages. Their dedicated work in covering stories from the perspective of women and girls, their specific challenges and voicing of their urgent needs has contributed to improvement of healthcare services.

It is important to mention here that the pandemic related crises have proved a global reminder of the vulnerability of the healthcare sector. This is particularly relevant in developing countries like Pakistan where healthcare infrastructures are not very robust.

Like most of the South Asian countries, social sector investment in healthcare sector has not been significant in our country. Government expenditure on health has increased from 0.7 percent of the GDP in 2014-15 to 1.0 percent of the GDP in 2017-18. It is still far too less than the globally acceptable 5 percent.

Practices in health, education and agriculture are directly related to the well-being of women and girls in any society. Thus, these sectors need special attention from the media who should highlight key issues and the role of relevant line departments in improving the on-ground situation.

Women journalists have to play a key role in this. They have first-hand experience of dealing with such challenges. Women journalists have already shown great resolve and commitment towards objective reporting. One hopes that with the passage of time this role will be further strengthened.

One hopes that the women in the media industry in Pakistan will continue to play their dynamic role of highlighting the importance of an inclusive society where women and girls are fully supported to achieve their full potential. The relevant organisations and the society are also expected to accept the change.

The writer is the founder of Digital Time Communications