The Social Impact of Globalization on Traditional Textile Communities in Pakistan

Abstract

This research examines how globalization affects traditional Pakistani textile communities by analyzing Multan and Bahawalpur in addition to Swat and Sindh which retain a strong heritage of textile arts. Through qualitative research the investigation conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 participants including artisans as well as community elders and NGO representatives to achieve broad knowledge. Main outcomes revealed the decline of cultural identity combined with shifts in gender roles together with economic instability and survival strategies adopted by affected communities. The production of mass-manufactured textiles along with synthetic fabrics resulted in reduced handmade craft sales which damaged artisan cultural pride while putting traditional capabilities at risk. Women working in the textile industry obtained financial freedom by growing independent yet must now handle both home duties and career obligations. Changing economic conditions resulting from industrial competition together with limited market opportunities have caused numerous artisans to stop working. Artisans demonstrate their resistance to these obstacles with digital marketing strategies and cooperative models alongside branding methods thus maintaining their cultural heritage.