Family Norms and Female Poverty in South Asia: the Mediating Role of Female Labour Force Participation

Introduction: The intersection of poverty and gender manifests in disproportionately high levels of female poverty. In this context, female labour force participation (FLFP) is a critical area of inquiry, particularly regarding gender equality and poverty reduction – key priorities of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which emphasizes social and economic inclusion. However, empirical research exploring the role of female labour force (FLF) as a mediating factor in women’s gendered experiences of poverty – particularly as shaped by traditional family norms in the developing world – remains limited. The present study addresses this gap by examining the dynamics of FLFP and gendered poverty within the socio-cultural context of Pakistan, which is a developing country in South Asia. Methods: Adopting a qualitative research paradigm and a narrative inquiry approach, data were collected from 20 purposively selected female respondents from the labour force in Pakistan. Using Glaser’s data collection technique, we conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews to capture personal experiences and social realities. The data were analysed inductively using a semantic approach, guided by Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework. Results: The findings indicate that a combination of patriarchal exploitation and capitalist structures, embedded within the institution of family, systematically marginalises women. This dual dynamic leads to both social exclusion and economic abuse, reinforcing women’s socioeconomic dependence and contributing to feminisation of poverty. Conclusion: The intersection of patriarchy and capitalism sustains socio-economic systems in developing countries that depend on a low-cost, compliant female workforce in both private and public spaces. Consequently, women remain economically active yet persistently poor and powerless. Addressing this paradox demands institutional reforms to advance the inclusion goals of Agenda 2030. Policies must target gendered power structures and ensure women’s economic participation translates into real empowerment and poverty reduction.