Pakistan’s Multi-Faceted Crisis
- Widespread regional discontent: Peripheral regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Baluchistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are protesting for constitutional recognition, autonomy, and democratic representation.
- Economic and security crises: Pakistan faces severe economic instability, rising terrorism, and systemic corruption, further straining the social fabric.
- Youth-led demand for reforms: The younger generation is increasingly vocal in demanding democratic rights, economic opportunities, and government accountability.
A nation once adhered by unity of aspirations now crumbling due to various internal riftts, as never before. The social, economic, and political fabric of the country is torn apart and is giving way to movements all across. The peripheral areas of Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir are up against the federal system for democratic rights and a genuine democratic representation. It only adds to the scenario of civil war and weakening of the roots of the country by the inculcation of poly-crisis.
The protests in Gilgit-Baltistan are an expression of frustrations from the entire area. Thousands turn out to demand constitutional recognition and autonomy of governance and economic development. “No taxation without representation” – a slogan reminiscent of the American Revolution – brings into sharp relief the plight of GB. Melting glaciers and frequent floods add to the problems in the region. The uneven response to disaster management fuels to the list of grievances. Demands include subsiding wheat and comprehensive land reforms for the betterment of the local population are shaping the social discourse of the land of the mountains.
The recent conflict in Parachinar shows just how fragile the social order has become, marked by sectarian violence and land disputes. The display of mutilated bodies in Parachinar is a grim pointer to the inability of the government to sustain peace and security.
The situation in Baluchistan is no better. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee, led by Dr. Mahrang Baloch, has been leading a protest against forced disappearances and denial of democratic rights. Economically and politically, the people of Baluchistan remain at the farthest margin. Rich natural resources, instead of being a source of prosperity, have mostly proved to be a bane—resulting in the exploitation and negligence of the central government.
Recently, huge crowds rushed to the town of Banu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa against the state’s announcement of the Azam-e-Istekam operation and deteriorating security. Acts of terrorism have scarred this region, killing many civilians and security personnel. The recent conflict in Parachinar shows just how fragile the social order has become, marked by sectarian violence and land disputes. The display of mutilated bodies in Parachinar is a grim pointer to the inability of the government to sustain peace and security.
A different yet equally disturbing scenario is that of Sindh. Banditry thrives on the Platform of ransom, holding people against their will and torturing them mercilessly. Inaction by the provincial government has made this town lawless. The metropolitan cities of Karachi are turning even more dangerous, and the rising crime rates and deteriorating security are keeping a local man at a standstill. Brutality of landlords and murder of journalists and innocents adds to this instability in the province.
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, there was a 67 percent increase in incidents of terrorism in 2024 as compared to the previous year. Another emerging threat to the social fabric is rising mob violence and extremism. Religious minorities are dealt with brutal force, and further strains on social cohesion are put.
The economic situation all over Pakistan is gloomy. Cost-of-living crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and fiscal instability are exacerbating the woes of the state. Overburdened taxation on the middle class further adds to the already pathetic state of economic affairs. This pressure was accompanied by unemployment and under-employment amongst the youth.
Protests and riots broke out all over the country amid mounting frustration with the government’s irresponsible behavior. These include the huge problems of health and education sectors, which have been compounded by out-of-control crime coupled with systemic corruption. In the Corruption Perceptions Index of Transparency International, Pakistan stands at 124th among the 180 countries.
The security threats never recede and are very imminent. Revived terrorism, particularly in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is overwhelmingly dangerous. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, there was a 67 percent increase in incidents of terrorism in 2024 as compared to the previous year. Another emerging threat to the social fabric is rising mob violence and extremism. Religious minorities are dealt with brutal force, and further strains on social cohesion are put.
there is a dire need for constitutional reforms that would not only integrate Gilgit-Baltistan and other sidelined regions fully into the framework of the country with complete representation in the National Assembly and the Senate but would also establish an independent electoral commission.
The youth are now more aware and connected than ever, leading from the front in demanding democratic and constitutional rights. More and more, they raise their voices against injustices and deprivations of political and economic opportunities. These demographic potentials have to be fathomed and responded to by the government at large for long-term stability.
Crises on all fronts require a multi-dimensional approach on the part of the federal government: Firstly, there is a dire need for constitutional reforms that would not only integrate Gilgit-Baltistan and other sidelined regions fully into the framework of the country with complete representation in the National Assembly and the Senate but would also establish an independent electoral commission. Secondly, serious economic development projects should be initiated so that the economy will become self sufficient through investments in infrastructure, health, and education.
Thirdly, the local governance structures also have to be upgraded by vested provincial and regional governments with greater autonomy. moreover, strengthen security countermeasures against terrorism and sectarian bloodshed, and provide fair and time-bound justice for the usurption of grievances. Next, some policies about inclusiveness and protection of minority rights are needed to regain their confidence. Finally, some engaging programs should be designed with a view to involving the youth in decision-making processes and imparting educational and job opportunities.
Pakistan is undoubtedly at a crossroads. The nation’s ability to address the deep-seated discontents of its people will determine its future. The country can achieve a greater status and stature as a united and resilient nation, provided that the unique regional grievances are acknowledged and addressed at the regional level through inclusive governance and economic development. The time to act is now; further ignorance of the people’s voices is something the country cannot afford.
The author is an independent researcher having keen interest in foreign policy, geopolitics, and international relations.
