When we talk about justice, democracy, and equality, a fundamental question arises: do the rules that govern us truly represent all of us? If the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, then its language should be clear, inclusive, and reflective of every citizen.

The Constitution is more than a legal document. It is a mirror of our collective identity and a guide to the future we aim to build. Language within it plays a powerful role in shaping how people see themselves and how society imagines who belongs in leadership and decision-making. If the text assumes men as the default and women as the exception, it risks unintentionally reinforcing inequality.

Encouragingly, the scale of reform required is not overwhelming. Out of 305 operational articles, only about 102 — roughly one third would need rephrasing to make them gender inclusive. This shows that change is both possible and focused. The aim is not to rewrite the entire text, but to modernize outdated language so it reflects principles of fairness and equality.

One example is Article 263, which currently states that, “words importing the masculine gender shall be taken to include females.” While intended as a solution, this approach leaves women recognized only indirectly. Similarly, the General Clauses Act of 1897 reflects a colonial-era drafting practice that treated men as the standard. A more straightforward alternative is available: replacing terms like “he” with words such as “the citizen,” “the judge,” or “the chairperson.” In other cases, the use of “they” or a simple restructuring of sentences ensures clarity without excluding anyone.

It is also important to consider translation. Many Urdu provisions of the Constitution already sound inclusive because the grammar is less gendered. However, when read in English, these same provisions often appear male-centered. Careful bilingual drafting can help ensure consistency and fairness across both versions.

Yet inclusivity goes beyond grammar. It must also be reflected in practice. A gender-inclusive Constitution can strengthen participation by women, youth, minorities, and other marginalized groups. Mechanisms such as gender-responsive budgeting, disaggregated data collection, and stronger pathways for leadership at local and national levels would help ensure that equality is not just symbolic, but measurable and practical.

Reserved seats for women have opened important opportunities, but the journey continues. Political parties, for instance, can play a stronger role by ensuring fair nominations for general seats, and by fully implementing existing rules such as the 5 percent ticket allocation. At the grassroots level, inclusive local governance can lay the foundation for stronger representation nationally.

Education is key to sustaining these reforms. Citizens must be aware of their rights, and institutions, from lawmakers to judges to public servants should be equipped to interpret and apply laws in inclusive ways. Equality should not be treated as an optional goal, but as part of the constitutional responsibility of governance.

While only a third of the Constitution requires rephrasing, the impact of these changes could be far-reaching. An inclusive Constitution would signal to young girls that leadership and citizenship are theirs as much as anyone’s. It would affirm to all marginalized groups that they are part of the national contract.

Reform of this nature is never without challenges, but it carries significant promise. A Constitution that speaks to everyone equally can help build trust, strengthen democracy, and make equality real. As Michelle Obama once said, “No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.” A gender-inclusive Constitution is a step toward ensuring that Pakistan can flourish fully, drawing on the potential of all its people.

About the Author:

Momal Nawab is Program Associate at Accountability Lab Pakistan and can be reached out at momal@accountabilitylab.org.