KARACHI:
As Pakistan turns 77 on August 14, it finds itself still searching for stability. The nation has struggled to uphold the ideals of justice and equality envisioned by its founding fathers. Persistent political instability, poor economic management, corruption and ineffective governance have impeded the development of a truly democratic and inclusive society.
From the outset, Pakistan faced significant challenges that hindered its progress. Born into poverty, with over half the population living below the poverty line and a per capita income of just $100, the path to development was arduous. The literacy rate was below 15%, and the state grappled with financial instability, exacerbated by the migration of 15 million people. Over the decades, political upheavals, military coups, natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic further strained the nation. Today, while neighbouring countries flourish, Pakistan, the world’s fifth most populous nation — with two-thirds of its people under the age of 28 — remains trapped with a per capita income of $1,200, a heavy reliance on the IMF, and various ongoing struggles. Looking ahead to its centenary in 2047, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. Can the nation, like a phoenix, rise from its challenges in time for its hundredth year of independence? This is the question on the minds of many Pakistanis. To achieve this, Pakistan must not only establish a consensus-driven political culture but also comprehensively reform its economy.
Recent history has shown that many countries have achieved miraculous transformations, moving from adversity to prosperity within a single generation. With hope and determination, Pakistan can achieve the same if it adopts pragmatic and actionable measures.
Wahab Abbasi
Islamabad
