Beyond Tokenism: Assessing the Transformative Impact of Gender Quotas on Women's Political Empowerment in Pakistan

Abstract

Gender quotas have been implemented in Pakistan to enhance women’s political participation, yet their effectiveness in fostering genuine empowerment remains contested. This study examines whether quotas have led to substantive representation or merely symbolic inclusion. Through a mixed-methods approach analyzing legislative records, election data (2008-2024), and interviews with female parliamentarians the research evaluates the socio-political barriers that constrain women’s agency in politics. Findings suggest that while quotas have increased numerical representation, structural inequalities, patriarchal norms, and party politics limit transformative impact. The study argues for institutional reforms to move beyond tokenism toward meaningful political empowerment.