By Fathima Aurakzai
The merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through the 25th Constitutional Amendment marked a historic step toward inclusive governance in Pakistan. This integration extended constitutional rights, legal protections and access to democratic systems to a region that had long remained outside the national framework. Among the most significant changes was the formal recognition of women as equal citizens with the right to participate in decision-making, access justice and contribute to local development.
Yet, for many women in these culturally rich and traditional areas, the journey from legal recognition to meaningful participation remains incomplete. Despite policy reforms, daily realities continue to be shaped by longstanding customs, limited institutional outreach and social perceptions regarding women’s roles in public life.
Women from the merged districts historically lived on the margins of formal governance. Although new legal provisions now affirm their rights, deeply rooted norms, restricted mobility and limited support structures still limit their engagement. Even when elected to local councils, many women face challenges. These include inadequate training, limited authority within male-dominated forums and hesitation from communities unfamiliar with women’s leadership in public roles.
These challenges arise not only from institutional limitations but also from cultural traditions that emphasize distinct gender roles. Therefore, sustainable progress must be guided by local wisdom, religious values and traditions, rather than imposed externally. Reform efforts should be aligned with community values such as dignity, mutual responsibility and social harmony, which are also integral to both Pashtunwali and Islamic teachings.
Tribal Elders, Religious Leaders and Jirgas should not be viewed as barriers to reform. Rather, they are respected figures whose support is essential to fostering change in a way that maintains community trust. When approached through respectful and inclusive dialogue, these actors can facilitate women’s participation in ways that are both culturally appropriate and practically feasible. There is no inherent contradiction between Islamic principles, Pashtun identity and women’s constructive role in society. This is a point that is often overlooked in external narratives.
At times, initiatives led by government institutions or development partners, despite being well-intentioned; face limitations when they are not sufficiently informed by local perspectives or cultural considerations. In some communities, the participation of women elected on reserved seats is influenced by social expectations related to family norms and community values. In certain cases, their engagement is shaped by protective family structures. Political parties, while gradually expanding their support for women’s representation, continue to navigate complex cultural dynamics. Similarly, some development actors, in their efforts to achieve results, may unintentionally overlook the importance of community ownership and long-term sustainability.
The absence of gender-responsive data and locally relevant indicators presents a challenge in effectively assessing the pace and depth of progress. While the numerical representation of women in formal governance structures has improved, there remains a need to better understand and strengthen the substance and impact of their participation. The repeal of the Frontier Crimes Regulation and the introduction of formal judicial mechanisms were important milestones. However, for many women in the merged districts, access to justice continues to be affected by the limited presence of women judges, legal support personnel and inclusive institutional facilities that reflect their specific needs and context.
At the same time, some promising and constructive developments are beginning to take shape. In various parts of the merged districts, women are participating in education campaigns, contributing to health awareness efforts and playing active roles in addressing local challenges. These initiatives, supported by respected community members such as teachers, elders and religious leaders, illustrate that women’s engagement can grow in a way that respects cultural values and reinforces community cohesion.
Such developments demonstrate that women’s empowerment can evolve organically through local legitimacy and shared community values. Instead of framing women’s participation as a departure from tradition, it can be seen as a natural continuation of the region’s longstanding emphasis on justice, responsibility and social cohesion.
For those working on policy and development, whether within Pakistan or at the international level, progress depends on genuine engagement with local communities. It is important to respect existing structures, build trust and support gradual and inclusive reform. Practical efforts such as improving the capacity of elected women representatives, enhancing women’s access to justice and ensuring inclusive planning processes can lead to sustainable change when rooted in cultural understanding and mutual respect.
In conclusion, the success of governance reforms in the merged districts will depend on how well they reflect the lived experiences and cultural strengths of the communities they are meant to serve. When efforts to promote inclusion are built on trust, guided by cultural values and shaped by local voices, they not only strengthen governance but also contribute to a more cohesive and just society for all, including the women of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s former tribal areas.
About the Author
The writer is a development professional with extensive experience in humanitarian response, livelihoods and women’s economic empowerment across conflict-affected regions of Pakistan. A native of Kurram District, she holds a Master’s degree in Gender and Women Studies. She has worked with a UN agency as well as various national and international Organizations.
