Generations at the Polls: The Past and Future of Women’s Electoral Participation inPakistan

Abstract

This article investigates electoral trends among women in Pakistan, specifically young urban women’s evolving electoral and political participation. Historically, women’s electoral dynamics in the country have been shaped by patriarchal norms, inconsistent state policies, and systematic barriers that have limited their agency in the country’s electoral process. This article combines a historical analysis with contemporary field research- including surveys and focus group discussions- to explore how political awareness, socio-economic status, and gender norm influence young women’s voting behavior. Drawing on primary data collected from university students and young professionals in Lahore, the research identifies key motivators and deterrents affecting women’s participation in electoral politics. It highlights a growing shift among education, young women towards political engagement, disillusionment driven by social media, increased civic awareness, and dissatisfaction with traditional political structures. However, the findings also reveal persistent barriers, including family influence, voter registration issues, and distrust in political institutions. The article concludes by recommending policy interventions and grassroots strategies to foster inclusive political participation and to empower young women as active democratic agents in Pakistan’s future political landscape.