Sociological Investigation Of Feminism As A Human Rights Movement: A Case Study Of Faisalabad

Abstract

This research paper presents a sociological investigation of feminism as a human rights movement, using Faisalabad, Pakistan as a case study. Feminism is a social and human rights movement globally aimed at combating gender disparities and advocating equality of rights, opportunities, and social justice for women. In developing countries such as Pakistan, feminism can be viewed in many different ways—socio-cultural, religious, and political—resulting in varying degrees of acceptability and misconception. This paper is a sociological exploration of the concept of feminism as a human rights movement using Faisalabad as a case study to determine how local communities understand and react to feminist concepts and gender equality programs. The study analyzes perceptions, awareness, and attitudes of people toward feminism and its contribution to the enhancement of gender equality and human rights in the local socio-cultural setting. Quantitative data were gathered from 240 respondents across Faisalabad's Civil Lines, Jinnah Colony, and university campuses using structured questionnaires. The obtained data were processed with SPSS, employing descriptive and inferential statistical methods including chi-square tests. Results indicate a contradictory perception of feminism, with some respondents viewing it as a valid human rights movement promoting gender equality, and others viewing it as contrary to cultural and religious principles. The research emphasizes that education, exposure to media, and social setting have a great impact on influencing attitude towards feminism. The paper proposes awareness campaigns, education reforms, and policy measures to help society realize the principles of feminism as a human rights movement.

Keywords: Faisalabad, Feminist, Feminism, Human Rights, Movements, Pakistan, Waves, CEDAW, Intersectionality