A National Consultation on “Constitution for All” was held to explore how Pakistan’s Constitution can better fulfill its promises of equality and inclusion, with a particular focus on advancing women’s rights. The event, organized under the Pakistan Women Leaders Project and funded by the European Union, brought together leaders and experts from the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS), the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, and UN Women.
Participants reviewed the findings of the first Gender Analysis of the Constitution, conducted in 2023, which identified that just over one-third of the Constitution’s 305 articles could benefit from gender-inclusive language. Specifically, the analysis found that 102 articles require revised wording to ensure they are inclusive of all genders. The gathering highlighted the need to amend the General Clauses Act of 1897 to systematically incorporate inclusive language across all legislation.
Speakers stressed the urgency of translating constitutional guarantees into tangible changes in everyday life, emphasizing that constitutional reforms and legal amendments are essential steps toward achieving true gender equality and inclusive governance in Pakistan. The consultation set a clear agenda for lawmakers and policy experts, urging direct action to bridge gaps between the Constitution’s promises and the lived experiences of Pakistani citizens.
