KARACHI:
Visits to European countries can offer an important lesson about how societies can improve the quality of life of ordinary people. The difference is not only about wealth or modern technology. It is also about public behaviour, respect for law, simplicity, planning and concern for the common good.
European countries give considerable attention to education, healthcare, public transport, cleanliness, green spaces and other public facilities. People are generally treated as respected citizens rather than simply voters or taxpayers.
There is also a strong culture of simplicity and personal responsibility. At many places, officials and hosts personally welcome visitors and perform ordinary tasks themselves. Such behaviour reflects a society where public position does not necessarily mean a life of unnecessary luxury and protocol.
Another important example is the cycling culture, especially in Denmark. Students, teachers, men, women, children and elderly people use bicycles for daily travel. Separate and safe cycling lanes are provided, and the safety of cyclists is taken seriously. Cycling helps improve health, save fuel and reduce pollution.
Pakistan has different weather and other challenges, but there is still much that can be done. Walking or cycling for short distances could reduce fuel consumption, improve health and help control pollution. Unfortunately, cars are often treated as a symbol of social status, and even short journeys are made by car.
The larger lesson, however, is not simply about bicycles. It is about giving greater importance to health, cleanliness, the environment and the public interest rather than personal display. European development is supported not only by money and technology but also by respect for people, the rule of law and a sense of collective responsibility.
Pakistan also has considerable resources and talented people. What is needed is better planning, stronger public discipline and greater respect for ordinary citizens. We should also question our culture of excessive protocol, unnecessary official privilege and waste of public resources.
Pakistan does not need to copy the West. It needs to learn from those practices that can help create a cleaner, healthier, simpler and more respectful society.
Awais Qarni
Lahore
