Defying the Odds: Pakistan’s Path to Progress and Prosperity

Pakistan’s information technology industry is on course to exceed $7 billion in value by 2023 and $59.7 billion in annual economic value by 2030, with the government aggressively supporting the sector as a vital driver of economic growth.

Pakistan has long been linked with negative stereotypes, particularly in the West. Many people consider Pakistan to be a failing state beset by terrorism, political insecurity, poverty, corruption, and religious fanaticism. While it is true that Pakistan has encountered several problems throughout its history, it is equally crucial to recognize the country’s recent growth and successes.

Despite its difficulties, Pakistan has made great gains toward growth and wealth. We may acquire a better knowledge of Pakistan’s history, present, and future by evaluating its historical backdrop, political environment, economic progress, and social development.

Pakistan and India were established in 1947 as a result of the partition. At its founding, the country faced various obstacles, including significant migration across new boundaries, community strife, and a lack of basic infrastructure. Pakistan’s early years were defined by political insecurity, economic hardship, and social upheaval.

The involvement of the military has been one of the defining elements of Pakistan’s history. Several periods of martial law and military coups have occurred in the nation, with the military gaining direct control of the government at various times. As civilian administrations try to exert their authority and the military attempts to preserve its power, this has resulted in a cycle of political instability.

Despite its difficulties, Pakistan has seen moments of great growth and progress. The country saw significant economic growth in the 1960s, propelled by a concentration on industry and modernization. Textile exports, which account for the majority of Pakistan’s exports, were valued at $19.33 billion in 2022. Pakistan has made advances in recent years to increase access to education. According to UNESCO, Pakistan’s literacy rate has improved from 43% in 1998 to 63% in 2017.

In recent years, Pakistan has made strides in fostering gender equality. For example, the ratio of women in Pakistan’s National Assembly has improved from 20.7% in 2013 to 20.9% in 2018, however much more work needs to be done. It is critical to recognize the country’s growth and accomplishments.

Pakistan has achieved significant economic growth in recent years, with its GDP growing by an average of 5.2% per year between 2013 and 2018. The country has benefited from the growth of industries such as IT and textiles, with Pakistan becoming one of the largest exporters of textiles in the world. The IT industry has also seen significant growth, with the government actively promoting the sector as a key driver of economic growth.

The government has taken steps to address the challenges of poverty and unemployment, such as the launch of an Ehsaas Kafalat program In 2021, which aims to provide financial assistance to around 7 million women living below the poverty line and the introduction of a national minimum wage. Pakistan has made significant democratic progress in recent years, with peaceful transfers of power occurring between civilian governments.

There has also been increased media freedom, with greater press coverage of political and social issues. The government has taken steps to strengthen institutions such as the judiciary and the Election Commission, to further consolidate democratic processes. The government is continuing to work towards greater transparency and accountability to strengthen democratic institutions.

Pakistan has faced significant security challenges in recent years, including terrorism and regional conflicts. The country has made significant progress in combating these threats, with the military and security forces playing a key role in securing the country. According to the Global Terrorism Index, the number of deaths from terrorism in Pakistan fell by 86% between 2014 and 2019. The launch of Operation Zarb-e-Azb in 2014 was a turning point in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, with the military successfully targeting militant strongholds in the tribal areas. The country is also working towards promoting regional stability and peaceful relations with its neighbors.

The compassion of the Pakistani people will never allow the country to collapse. The abroad diaspora, through remittances and foreign direct investment, has historically aided the country in times of need. Pakistan has made great strides toward wealth and advancement. The country has had tremendous economic growth, democratic improvement, and achievements in addressing security concerns. Its cordial relations with its neighbors, as well as its strategic location in South Asia, strengthened its relevance.

Muhammad Wasama Khalid
Muhammad Wasama Khalid
Muhammad Wasama Khalid is a Correspondent and Researcher at Global Affairs. He is pursuing his Bachelors in International Relations at National Defense University (NDU). He has a profound interest in history, politics, current affairs, and international relations. He tweets at @Wasama Khalid and can be reached at Wasamakhalid[at]gmail.com