Representatives of Shirkat Gah’s Women Political Forum from Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh during a press conference at the Lahore Press Club. We argue that empowering women in local governance is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic necessity for strengthening Pakistan’s democratic infrastructure. Local governance, encompassing issues like sanitation, education, and healthcare, directly impacts the lives of ordinary citizens. Examples from around the world underscore the positive impact of women in local governance. A concrete plan to address these challenges and unlock the potential of women in local governance is crucial.
