Obstructions to Women’s Political Participation in the Context of Socio-Religious Values in Pakhtun Society

Abstract

As a renowned slogan i.e. “Girls are capable of doing what men do” in each and every spheres of life where political aspect and participation specifically of women can leads to sustainable development in the society. In this regards, the current study was carried out in two Tehsils of District Dir Lower wherein a total of 266 female respondents were selected via simple random sampling to know about the various socio-religious barriers to women’s political participation in Pakhtun society. The study concluded that cultural deviation, domestic roles and pardah violation were impeding women’s political participation. Similarly, religious misinterpretation, religious male dominancy, public dealing and traveling were the religious dogmatic obstructions. The Bivariate analysis reflects a significant (P=0.0091) relationship between structural male superiority and woman political participation. Moreover, a significant (P=0.032) relationship was found between religious misinterpretation and political participation as well religious obligation of pardah and political participation.  The Structural oppression theory work well at the study at hand   that women's oppression and inequality are a result of capitalism, patriarchy, and racism.  The treaty between the political parties and consensus reflect democratic political philosophy in the area. The study suggested that Women Education, transform patriarchal mentality and constitutional political rights should be ensure across the country and particularly the target area for maximum women’s political participation.