Empowering Marginalized Voices: The Transformative Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Advancing Women's Political Empowerment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55737/trt/v-i.222Keywords:
NGOs, Women’s Empowerment, Political Participation, Decision-Making, Gender EqualityAbstract
Women’s political empowerment is considered an essential element of sustainable development. This study examines the transformative role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in advancing women’s political empowerment in District Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A quantitative research design was employed, with primary data collected from 270 respondents selected through random sampling from three Union Councils, i.e., Bahrain, Madyan, and Tirat. Proportional allocation ensured representative sampling. Data were gathered using a structured interview schedule based on a three-point Likert scale and analyzed through SPSS using the Chi-square test to examine associations between variables. The findings reveal that NGOs significantly contribute to enhancing women’s decision-making power, political awareness, and participation in public forums. A majority of respondents acknowledged the role of NGOs in organizing training workshops, preparing women for public engagement, and advocating for increased parliamentary representation. However, limited encouragement for women to contest elections highlights persistent socio-cultural barriers. The Chi-square results indicate a highly significant relationship (P=0.000) between NGO interventions and women’s political empowerment. Overall, NGOs emerge as key agents in fostering political inclusion, capacity building, and gender equality. The study concludes that strengthening NGO initiatives can further enhance women’s political participation and leadership, ultimately contributing to democratic development and social transformation in the region, consistent with broader findings on women’s empowerment in Pakistan. It is recommended that NGOs should boost women's elections participation, political training, government collaboration, anti-barrier campaigns, and funding to enhance empowerment.
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