KARACHI:
In Pakistan, freelancers or people wanting to pursue freelancing face significant challenges, which impede their progress. The main issue is a lack of awareness about opportunities and the absence of training facilities. Many people do not where to apply or how to approach recruiters. At times, they even struggle with fulfilling the tasks.
Limited access to internet broadband and digital devices i.e., computers, or smartphones further hampers people’s ability to secure freelancing jobs. Many Pakistani freelancers work on external computers or laptops, but this is not always feasible, so they continue to lag in the global freelance market. Freelancers also face legal and regulatory challenges including a lack of protection for their rights and a lack of clarity around taxation and other financial obligations. To address these challenges and support the growth of freelancing in Pakistan, it is important to invest in training programmes, improve access to technology and create a supportive legal and regulatory framework for freelancers.
The government should work with private sector organisations to promote freelancing and provide support and resources to freelancers. Pakistan already ranks among the top 10 countries for freelancing and freelancing is a primary source of income for many. Thus, the government should facilitate freelancers by addressing the aforementioned issues as it will not only help create employment for the youth but also contribute to the economy.
Areeba Noor Awan
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, February 7th, 2023.
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