EMPOWERING PAKISTANI WOMEN THROUGH THE CPEC PROJECT: EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES AND ADDRESSING CHALLENGES

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a project linking China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative with Pakistan’s economic development plans. The CPEC project is anticipated to revolutionize Pakistan’s economy by boosting industrial growth, resolving energy challenges, enhancing regional connectivity, bridging the infrastructure gap, and improving societal dimensions. This study explores how this ambitious project represents a pivotal chance with transformative potential for empowering Pakistani women through enhanced economic prospects and social advancement. Women, who constitute 119 million in Pakistan, according to the Population Census 2023, can forge significant pathways for economic participation across various sectors such as manufacturing, services, and infrastructure development, capitalizing on opportunities facilitated by CPEC. Using the feminist theoretical framework, this research paper examines the potential impact of CPEC on the economic participation, skills development, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles of Pakistani women. Employing an explorative approach, the paper evaluates both the opportunities and challenges Pakistani women encounter in accessing and benefiting from the plans related to the CPEC. The findings underscore the importance of inclusive practices to maximize women’s empowerment, advocate for gender-responsive policies, and ensure their equitable participation in Pakistan's socio-economic progress accelerated by CPEC. The study concludes with recommendations for policy and practice to achieve sustainable development outcomes and promote gender equality through the CPEC initiative.