ANALYSIS OF THE PERFORMANCE AND PROBLEMS OF WORKING WOMEN: A CASE STUDY OF QUETTA CITY

Abstract

Working women in Quetta, Balochistan, navigate a complex web of socio-cultural, economic, and institutional challenges. Despite progressive policies at national and international levels, deeply ingrained societal norms and weak institutional enforcement hinder women’s professional advancement and overall workplace well-being. The city’s conservative setting exacerbates the dual burden on women, who are expected to perform exceptionally both at home and in professional environments. This case study examines the lived experiences of working women across various employment sectors, including education, healthcare, and administration, shedding light on how traditional expectations conflict with the demands of modern employment. The research draws on qualitative methods and secondary data, supplemented by insights from 150 respondents—working women in Quetta—who participated through surveys and interviews. Their responses reveal how systemic limitations—such as a lack of legal awareness, insufficient childcare facilities, unreliable public transport, workplace harassment, and wage inequality—collectively contribute to the marginalization of women in Quetta’s workforce. The study also underscores how societal stigma, reinforced through media and generational teachings, suppresses ambition and reinforces occupational segregation.

Keywords: Working women; gender inequality; dual burden; workplace harassment; career barriers; cultural norms.