SUMMARY of the Article “Crisis of Population Growth,” by Zeba Sathar, Dawn, November 23rd, 2024

Pakistan’s population growth rate of 2.55% (2017-2023) is alarmingly high, making it the fastest in South Asia. Over the past 25 years, the population has increased by 110 million, putting immense pressure on resources and development prospects. The Population Council and UNFPA’s report Pakistan@2050 highlights the consequences of this rapid growth, such as missed economic opportunities, unmanageable urbanization, and heightened unemployment. Had the population growth been lower, Pakistan’s GDP could have been 56% higher, with significantly reduced poverty and maternal mortality rates. By 2050, the population is projected to reach 385 million, further straining already stretched resources. The workforce will grow by 65 million by 2050, requiring 2.6 million additional jobs annually. The report emphasizes the necessity of reducing fertility rates to 2.2 replacement levels by 2030, a goal achieved by regional neighbors like Bangladesh and Iran. Half of pregnancies in Pakistan are unplanned, with millions resulting in abortions and unintended births, underscoring the need for expanded family planning services. Compulsory primary education is also crucial, with 25 million out-of-school children as a significant barrier to progress. Addressing gender inequities and increasing female education and labor force participation are essential for sustainable development. The article urges immediate action to implement policies on fertility reduction and primary education, predicting that such » Read More…