CHANGED (UNCHANGED) STATUS OF WOMEN IN THE NEWLY MERGED DISTRICT OF KURRAM

Abstract

This ethnographical study in the Newly Merged District of Kurram in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province investigates post-merger situation and the local perspectives and sociocultural norms on gender. It also tries to discusses recent changes if any in the socio-cultural norms with the extension of state’s laws and institutions. Hence, the aim of the study is to observe the changed (un-changed) status of the women after a merger of Kurram with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and generate a discussion on the recommendations to improve the prevailing situation of women and girls. Through this study, we have also tried to observe the inclusivity of women and girls in the new system of state and identify the gaps in the policy. Hence, to seek information, we have conducted 24 key informants’ interviews, 12 with men and 12 with women between the age of 22 to 62 from Kurram to record their views on post-merger and any change in the status of the women in the Newly Merged Kurram District while applying methodology of Reality Check Approach and ECRIS approach.