Pakistan continues to struggle with social inequality, ranking 164th out of 193 countries on the Human Development Index (HDI). According to the UNDP’s 2023-24 report, 21.9% of Pakistan’s 230 million people live below the poverty line, with 37% facing food insecurity. The country’s wealth distribution is starkly uneven, with the richest 10% holding 25.7% of the income share. Pakistan’s National Human Development Report on social inequality highlights disparities in education, healthcare and opportunities. Specifically, the report notes that 22.5 million children are out of school, 6.8 million people lack access to healthcare, and the unemployment rate for female graduates is 3.8 times higher than that of males.
Unicef’s 2024 State of the World’s Children Report notes 22.5 million children are out of school in Pakistan. The World Bank’s 2024 World Development Indicators report a 33% decline in Pakistan’s inequality-adjusted HDI. To combat social inequality, policymakers can implement strategies focused on economic empowerment, social justice and human development. Collaborative efforts from the government, NGOs and communities are essential to addressing disparities and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Shari Wahid
Turbat
