Experiences of Intersecting Inequalities for Christian Women and Girls in Pakistan

Abstract

In Pakistan, where gender-based discrimination is already rampant, women and girls belonging to religious minority or belief communities face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination over and above those faced by an average Pakistani woman and girl. This policy briefing shares findings from a study on the situation of socioeconomically excluded Christian women and girls in Pakistan. During the research, they discussed their experiences of different forms of discrimination, which predominantly took place within their workplace (largely sanitary, domestic and factory work) and educational institutes, particularly in government schools. They described being restricted in their mobility by their families and communities who are fearful of the threats of forced conversion, and both poor and affluent women relayed experiences of harassment at healthcare and education facilities once their religious identity is revealed.