Women Voters Come Out in Pakistan Administered Kashmir to make Democracy Work for Women Too
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Author: Faria Salman
Pakistan Administered Kashmir, Pakistan – “I am voting to exercise my power and identity and want to be included in the political process. I feel empowered that after all, in this male dominated society, I as a women have a voice and value of my vote” said one of the many female voters who participated in the State elections in Pakistan Administered Kashmir on Thursday 21 July 2016.
Women voters came out wearing ‘Orange’, to show their support to end gender inequality and increase women’s representation in politics and all spheres of life, ahead of #OrangeDay 25 July; the United Nations Secretary-General’s Campaign UNiTE to End Violence against Women has proclaimed the 25th of each month as “Orange Day”, a day to raise awareness and take action to end discrimination and violence against women and girls.
This Orange Day, with the theme of SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries, and a target to ‘empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status by 2030,’ the UNiTE campaign calls for the eradication of discriminatory laws and the introduction of laws which prevent, respond to and punish all forms of discrimination and violence against women, and reduce social inequalities.
In exercising their voice and role in a State with 438,884 registered voters (184,067 women and 254,817 men), women enthusiastically took part in shaping their future. One women voter, when asked if she became a politician, what changes would she make for women in a male-dominated society, said “I will try my best to ensure zero tolerance to violence against women, especially in public spaces. I would introduce: women-only buses and vans; women-only hostels for women working away from home; reforms in the security sector with establishment of women-friendly and run police stations and I would also bring women police officers at par with male officers.” Another woman voter had a message for young girls who will be eligible to vote in the next State elections: “Make yourself politically aware now and contribute effectively in the political process of your country. Undoubtedly, political participation is more than simply casting a vote. However, it is - if nothing else - a step in the right direction.”
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Please contact: Faria Salman
Strategic Management and Partnerships Officer &
Communications Focal Point for UN Women Pakistan
Email: [ Click to reveal ]