A recent report by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) highlights a serious issue: the participation of women in technology and digital spaces remains “alarmingly low.” This is not just a local problem but a global concern as well. The report points out that women have less access to smartphones and the internet compared to men, creating a digital gender divide that needs urgent attention.
The Global and Local Situation
Globally, about 327 million fewer women than men have access to smartphones and mobile internet, as highlighted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report titled Bridging the Digital Gender Divide. In Pakistan, the situation is similar. Despite the rise in internet users, the percentage of women using technology and the internet is still very low.
Between 2021 and 2022, the number of internet users in Pakistan increased by 22 million (a 35.9% rise), but the total internet penetration remains below 40%. This shows that, even though more people are going online, many women are still not part of this digital world.
Key Issues Facing Women in Digital Spaces
According to the PTA report, several challenges are holding back women from fully participating in the digital world:
- Limited Digital Literacy – Many women lack the necessary skills to use technology, which makes it harder for them to access information, education, and work opportunities online.
- Restricted Access to Financial Services – Many women do not have access to basic financial services like bank accounts, making it difficult for them to engage in online transactions or use financial apps.
- Lack of National Identity – Around 25% of adult women in Pakistan do not have a national identity card (CNIC), which is required for many online services.
- High Costs of Devices and Internet – The high prices of smartphones and internet packages prevent many women from accessing the digital world.
- Scarcity of Local Content – There is a lack of content in local languages, making it difficult for many women to engage with online material.
- Safety Concerns – Women often face online harassment, which discourages them from using digital spaces.
- Patriarchal Control – Cultural and societal norms in some areas limit women’s freedom to use technology.
Internet Usage in Pakistan
The PTA report also highlighted how the use of social media platforms in Pakistan shows a gender gap. Here are some statistics:
| Social Media Platform | Total Users | Percentage of Women Users |
|---|---|---|
| 60.4 million | 24% | |
| YouTube | 71.7 million | 28% |
| TikTok | 54.4 million | 22% |
| 17.3 million | 36% |
As seen in the table, men make up the majority of users on all these platforms. This reflects the overall trend of fewer women engaging with digital spaces compared to men.
PTA Strategy for Change
To tackle these issues, the PTA has developed the Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications. This strategy aims to remove the barriers preventing women from accessing mobile phones and the internet.
The strategy, supported by UNESCO Pakistan, includes a detailed action plan with clear timelines and measurable goals. Its main focus is to increase women’s access to digital technology, enhance digital literacy, and create a safer and more inclusive digital environment for women.
Summary
The low participation of women in technology and digital spaces is a major issue that needs immediate attention. While there have been improvements in internet usage in Pakistan, the gender gap remains significant. Women face many challenges, from digital literacy to safety concerns, which limit their ability to fully participate in the digital world.
The PTA efforts to create a Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy are a step in the right direction. However, more needs to be done to ensure that women have equal access to technology, digital resources, and opportunities. By addressing these challenges, we can work towards a more inclusive and fair digital future for all.
