Positive Masculinity & Disaster Preparedness in Pakistani Urban Communities

Authors

  • Iqra Waheed Malik Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
  • Nadia Bukhtawer Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the intersection of positive masculinity and disaster preparedness in Pakistani urban communities. Through focus group discussions with 24 men aged 19 and above from Rawalpindi and Peshawar, the research highlights the transformative potential of positive masculinities in enhancing community resilience. The findings reveal that men in Pakistan have both traditional and positive perception of masculinity. Men with positive masculine traits, such as emotionality, responsibility, and perceiving women as allies are advocating for change. They can facilitate women's active participation in disaster preparedness efforts. These men emerge as pivotal agents in creating a conducive environment for collaboration, communication, and collective action in disaster mitigation and response. The study underscores the need to redefine traditional gender roles and promote gender-sensitive approaches that recognize and harness the strengths of both men and women in disaster risk reduction efforts within Pakistani urban contexts. It fosters inclusive and resilient communities in the face of disasters.

Keywords: Positive masculinity, disaster preparedness, gender roles, urban communities

Author Biographies

Iqra Waheed Malik, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Iqra Waheed, an MPhil graduate in Gender Studies from Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Her academic research focused on disaster preparedness, intersectionality, and the vulnerabilities faced by women in urban areas of Pakistan. With a strong background in gender advocacy, research, and project management, she has worked with organizations such as UN Women, OXFAM, and SSDO on initiatives related to gender equity, climate action, and community health. Her experience includes conducting field research, designing awareness campaigns, and leading workshops on topics such as girls' education in Balochistan, gender safety, and the care economy. She is passionate about promoting social equity and empowering marginalized communities through evidence-based advocacy and interdisciplinary approaches. Her work has been published in the Journal of Positive School Psychology, and she continues to contribute to projects that advance gender equality and social justice in Pakistan and beyond.

Nadia Bukhtawer, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Nadia Bukhtawer is an experienced lecturer in the Department of Gender Studies at Fatima Jinnah Women University, a seasoned researcher and a practicing psychologist, currently pursuing her PhD in Sociology. She holds an MPhil in International Development Studies and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. Her research focuses on psychosocial issues affecting adolescents, women's health, and gender dynamics, employing an interdisciplinary approach to address complex societal challenges including climate change. Recognized for her exceptional public speaking skills, she has presented critical gender issues at both national and international forums, establishing herself as a leading voice in gender studies. Through her work and  dedication to academia and community engagement, Nadia aims to create impactful change, enhancing the visibility and participation of women in socio-economic development.

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Published

2025-01-30

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (2025): Proceedings from the 8th Global Issues Conference

Section

Global Issues Conference Proceedings

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