Women’s Social and Political Participation in the Post-FATA Merger Period: A Qualitative Case Study of North and South Waziristan

Abstract

This study examines women’s socio-political participation in the post-merger context of the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), with a specific focus on North and South Waziristan. The merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under the 25th Constitutional Amendment was a significant step toward political integration and the extension of fundamental rights. However, the extent to which these reforms have improved women’s participation in socio-political processes remains an important question. Using a qualitative research design, the study employs purposive sampling and collects data from 25 respondents, including members of the academic community, political actors, women participants in elections, and subject experts. Data is analyzed through thematic analysis within an interpretivist framework to explore the underlying social, cultural, and economic dynamics influencing women’s participation.  The findings reveal that despite formal legal reforms, women’s socio-political participation remains limited due to persistent patriarchal structures, cultural norms, restricted mobility, economic dependency, and lack of political awareness. The study also highlights weak implementation of women laws and the continued influence of traditional systems such as tribal authority and customary practices. While some gradual progress is observed, particularly through the emergence of female political actors, overall participation remains low. The study concludes that legal and institutional reforms alone are insufficient to ensure women’s inclusion in political processes. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses socio-cultural barriers, promotes education and awareness, and strengthens institutional mechanisms. The research contributes to the existing literature by providing an in-depth qualitative understanding of the challenges and prospects of women’s socio-political participation in post-merger tribal district

Keywords: Women’s empowerment, Social and Political participation, Post-merger FATA,   North Waziristan, South Waziristan