POLICY PAPER Aiza Azam Gender Mainstreaming in Pakistan’s National Security Policymaking Pakistan’s National Security Policy of 2022-2026, a 64-page document discussing a full spectrum of areas and issues viewed as national security priorities, featured less than a dozen lines of text referencing the role of women in nation­al security. The featured content acknowledged that great­er inclusivity of women was required in forums and institu ­tions connected to policy formulation and decision-making, while stating that women and transgender persons de­served protection and safe, equitable access to essentials at home and in public spaces. An issue that involves nearly half of the country’s popula­tion, and affects it in its entirety, requires treatment beyond an honorary mention. It necessitates a deeper dive into what inclusivity, protection and equitable access entails for the lesser represented genders, as well as the impact that inclusivity can have on the national security policymaking process. This paper discusses the state of gender mainstreaming in Pakistan’s national security institutions, why equitable treatment and representation is essential, and how gender mainstreaming can be beneficial. Landscape of Women’s Representation in Pakistan’s National Security Apparatus Pakistani women contribute to Pakistan’s national security framework by serving in law enforcement, the armed forces and in government. As of late 2024, women participation in the police force lies at or under 5%, with the highest percentage being in the Federal Capital(5.04%) and the lowest being in Khyber Pa­khtunkhwa(1.46%). 1 The gender disparity in representation is for a variety of reasons, ranging from structural inade­quacies to socio-cultural constraints. Police work remains a male-dominated profession, partly due to its inherent nature and partly due to a lack of gen­der responsive approaches towards problem areas. The work involves activities such as night patrolling, traffic duty, investigations, and conducting raids, which are inher­ently intimidating or deemed unsafe for the female officer; issues include risk of injury, exposure to sexual harassment and assault, and condescending public attitudes. 2 It also involves engaging with criminals or individuals viewed as unsavory characters, both of which run counter to the kind of work environment that is considered acceptable for women in Pakistan. Gender Mainstreaming in Pakistan’s National Security Policymaking 1