Pakistan found itself at the bottom of the list in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report for 2025, ranking below 147 other countries. The report, which evaluates gender parity across economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment, revealed that Pakistan scored 56.7% in gender equality, the lowest since 2006.
The report highlighted that Pakistan’s overall gender parity score had declined to 56.7% from the previous year’s 57%, marking a worrisome trend. Despite closing 2.3% of its gender gap since 2006, the recent drop in scores indicates regression in gender equality.
Notably, Pakistan lagged behind countries like Sudan, Chad, and Iran in terms of gender equality. While educational attainment showed some improvement, with a rise in female literacy rates, economic participation and political empowerment witnessed setbacks. The decline in political parity, with a drop in women’s ministerial representation, is particularly concerning.
Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, Saadia Zahidi, emphasized the importance of gender parity as a strategic advantage for economies, enabling them to harness the full potential of their human capital for sustainable growth.
Globally, the report highlighted that the gender gap remains significant, with an average gap of over 30% across various areas. The global gender gap score stood at 68.8% in 2025, showing a marginal improvement from the previous year. However, the report noted that at the current pace, it would take 123 years to achieve full gender parity globally.
Despite the challenges, Iceland stood out as a leader in gender equality, with other top-ranked economies also making significant strides towards closing the gender gap. The report underscored the need for concerted efforts to accelerate progress towards gender parity worldwide.
In a rapidly evolving world marked by technological advancements and geopolitical shifts, achieving gender equality is not just a matter of principle but a strategic imperative. As countries grapple with complex challenges and opportunities, harnessing the talents and capabilities of all individuals, regardless of gender, becomes crucial for driving innovation and prosperity.
The Global Gender Gap Report serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead in bridging the gender divide and creating more inclusive societies. While progress has been made over the years, the road to full gender parity is long and requires sustained commitment from governments, businesses, and civil society.
As we navigate an era of transformation and uncertainty, embracing gender equality can unlock new avenues for growth and development, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
Leave feedback about this