Gender-Inclusive Politics and Diplomacy in Pakistan: An Analysis of Representation, Barriers, and Policy Reform

Abstract

This research endeavors to examine the potentials and constraints of gender-inclusive diplomacy in Pakistan by using a framework of intersectional feminism. Notwithstanding the progress at the international level in integrating gender inclusivity into foreign policy, women in Pakistan could not be promoted in the foreign service and diplomatic structures. While figures such as Ms Maryam Nawaz, Ms Maleeha Lodhi, Ms Hina Rabbani Khar, and Benazir Bhutto show women’s potential role in the diplomatic sphere. I take their presence to reaffirm symbolic markers rather than systemic change. This study raises a question: what structural, cultural, and institutional barriers restrict women’s participation in Pakistan’s foreign policy-making? Methodologically, the study employs qualitative research analyzing frameworks of gender equality in politics and Foreign Affairs. Comparative analysis with feminist foreign policy models offers a yardstick for evaluating Pakistan’s approach. Findings uncover that women's exclusion is not merely based on gender but is designed by intersecting factors of religion, class, and regional identity. Gender mainstreaming efforts in Pakistan remain limited, as they often fail to account for these layered identities. The study concludes that women’s representation is inadequate to accomplish inclusivity. Therefore, Pakistan must adopt structural reforms, including training opportunities and new employment frameworks for women. Since gender inclusive diplomacy is a strategic necessity for Pakistan, it should strengthen its diplomatic efficiency, long-term stability and global credibility by including women in diplomacy. Ultimately, inclusive diplomacy emerges not as a symbolic gesture but as a strategic necessity.