Empirical Analysis of Obstructions to Women's Electoral Representation in Mardan District (Pakistan): A Case Study of the 2018 General Elections

This research examines the factors impeding women's representation in elections in Mardan district (Pakistan) in relation to the 2018 general elections. The study has identified many factors such as conservative Pakhtun culture, narrow interpretation of religion, economic dependence of women, women's lack of interest in politics, lack of family cooperation, women's family responsibilities, lack of political awareness and lack of education identified. The study is qualitative and its scope is limited to Mardan district. The data were collected through a questionnaire in Mardan District from 400 respondents using convenience sampling.Data were analyzed using frequency, percent, and chi-square tests. The data were further elaborated using various independent variables such as area, gender, age and literacy.