A recent shocking statistic has sparked anger and distrust among Pakistanis: 10 million Pakistani women over the age of 35 are still unmarried. This figure has raised eyebrows, with many questioning its accuracy and effectiveness. In looking at this problem, it is important to consider the cultural, social and economic context of Pakistan to understand the complexities surrounding this phenomenon.
Pakistan has a growing population and a significant youth population. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), there are approximately 7.6 million women between the ages of 35-39 and 6.3 million between the ages of 40-44. Given that the average age of marriage is between 25 and 30, it is likely that most women in this age group are still single. However, the figure of 10 million seems inflated and requires further research.
In Pakistani society, marriage is often considered a social and family obligation. Women are often advised to prioritize marriage over educational and career goals. These cultural pressures may make women more likely to marry at a younger age. However, changing social norms and economic realities, resulting in more women pursuing higher education and careers, can delay marriage.
Pakistan has witnessed a significant increase in women’s participation in the workforce and education. According to PBS, the number of female workers increased from 1.3 million in 1990 to 5.4 million in 2020. This change reflects the increasing financial independence among women, which can lead to delayed marriage or reduced desire to marry.
Urbanization and migration: Internal migration and urbanization can affect marital status by causing changes in family structure and life dynamics.
Education and Career Focus: Increasing access to education and career opportunities may lead women to prioritize personal goals over marriage.
Divorce and remarriage: Rising divorce and remarriage rates may also contribute to the number of unmarried women over 35.
Data Collection and Accuracy: The accuracy of the 10 million images is questionable because the methods and data sources are unreliable or out of date.
Changing Attitudes About Marriage: With increasing education and financial independence, women can choose to delay or abandon marriage in favor of certain personal goals and autonomy.
Limited married men: gender inequality, with men less than women of marriageable age, can also contribute to the number of unmarried women.
Social stigma and family pressure: social expectations and family pressure can make women feel obligated to marry, even if they are not ready or interested.
While the exact number of unmarried Pakistani women over 35 is debatable, it is undeniable that societal and economic changes have contributed to the changing marriage rate. Instead of just focusing on statistics, we should recognize achievements in women’s empowerment and education. It should also address cultural and economic factors that influence marriage decisions, and women should have the freedom to choose their own path without social coercion. That way, we can work towards a more inclusive and just society for all Pakistani women.
In addition, initiatives such as education and skills training programs, economic empowerment opportunities, and social support systems can help unmarried women over the age of 35 to live and contribute to the country’s development. It is important to recognize and support one’s own agency, autonomy, and choice, rather than perpetuate societal pressure and terror.
In a developing country with a vibrant culture and rich traditions where family is paramount, a shocking revelation has rocked the digital world and sparked a heated debate in Pakistan. The news that 10 million Pakistani women over the age of 35 remain unmarried spread across social media, causing disbelief among many and prompting deep reflection on social norms, gender dynamics and individual choices.
At the heart of this revelation is the complex interplay of factors inherent in Pakistan’s social fabric. Marriage, which is considered the core of Pakistani life, has cultural significance, family expectations and religious values. Traditionally, the pursuit of marriage has been deeply embedded in societal norms, focusing on early marriage and family relationships.
However, as Pakistan moves into the 21st century, dramatic changes in demographics, education and economic opportunities have begun to redefine the landscape of marriage. Women, once confined to traditional roles, are gaining education, careers, and asserting their independence. This paradigm shift has created a new generation of Pakistani women.
