Perceptions of Social Empowerment among Hijab-Wearing Women in Pakistani Universities: An Intersectional Perspective

Abstract

In Pakistan, the hijab is a well-known symbol of religious and cultural identity; its effects on women's empowerment are still not widely acknowledged. This study analyzes the social empowerment experiences of professionals and students wearing wear veils in Pakistani academic settings. Seventeen hijab-wearing women from coeducational and women-only universities participated in semi-structured interviews utilizing a qualitative methodology. The data was interpreted through the perspectives of gender performativity and intersectionality theory using thematic analysis. The findings showed that women’s social empowerment emerged as closely linked to economic independence, mobility, self-reliance, and confidence. While women-only institutions offered safety and participation, co-educational settings were valued for building confidence and professional skills. Together, these outcomes highlight the dual nature of empowerment experienced by hijab-wearing women, where individual agency is fostered through education and exposure, yet constrained by institutional biases and societal expectations. These insights underscore the significance of inclusive policies and cultural sensitivity in order to promote social empowerment in educational and professional settings.