Pakistan is the fifth most populous nation in the world. Both directly and indirectly, 70 per cent of its working force is employed in agriculture, with the majority located in rural areas. Agriculture is one of the most crucial industries in Sindh, with nearly two-fifths of its population engaged in the agricultural sector, most of whom are women. But The Government of Sindh, however, is yet to formally recognize the role of women agriculture workers. Regardless of their invaluable contribution to the agricultural labour force, women agricultural workers remain vulnerable to starvation, gender-based discrimination, violence, exploitation, sexual harassment, and other forms of abuse. They lack legal protection and receive lower wages compared to their male counterparts in rural areas. Pakistan’s patriarchal culture stems from a mix of legal, political, cultural, and economic factors. Taken together, all these can negatively impact the lives of women. In addition, women agricultural workers are substantially underrepresented in agriculture sector. Gender inequality prevents women from accessing opportunities for advancement, perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes, and impedes Pakistan’s overall development.
