ISLAMABAD: The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has welcomed recent observations by the honourable courts recognising the economic and social contributions of women within households, terming it a significant step towards acknowledging women’s unpaid care work in Pakistan.
In a press statement, the commission’s chairperson said the judicial recognition reflects a progressive shift towards valuing women’s role in sustaining family structures and contributing to the national economy. She noted that such observations reinforce the principles of dignity, equity, and justice for women across the country.
The NCSW stated that it has consistently advocated for formal recognition of women’s rights within marriage, including both financial and non-financial contributions. The commission has been actively engaging with legal experts, policymakers, religious scholars, and civil society organisations to build consensus on key reforms.
It further said that extensive consultations are underway regarding proposed amendments to the Nikahnama to better reflect contemporary realities and strengthen safeguards for women’s rights. The commission is also working on improving legal clarity around dowry practices to prevent exploitation and ensure protection of women’s entitlements.
According to the statement, the courts’ observations have provided further momentum to these ongoing reform efforts aimed at promoting gender-just frameworks within family laws.
The NCSW reaffirmed its commitment to advancing these reforms through inclusive dialogue, evidence-based policymaking, and sustained advocacy to ensure that women in Pakistan are empowered, protected, and recognised as equal contributors to society.
