Misogyny's polite face

Authors

Khadija Bari

Article Type

Article

Description

The article highlights the persistent and subtle misogyny in Pakistan’s workplaces, where women occupy less than 8% of senior and middle management positions. While modern workplaces may appear inclusive, women are often confined to administrative or visible roles, tasked with “office housework,” and excluded from strategic decision-making. Their ideas are frequently overlooked until echoed by male colleagues, and achievements are attributed to networking rather than competence. Promotions favor informal male networks, and women often bear blame for failures beyond their control. The piece argues that genuine gender equality requires structural reforms, including redistribution of tasks, recognition of women’s contributions, and inclusion in decision-making spaces, with economic and moral stakes for Pakistan.

Publication Source

DAWN

Publication Date

1-13-2026

Pages

7

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