Yearly Archives: 2023

 SUMMARY of “Deadly trade,” Editorial, Dawn, October 4th, 2023

The illegal organ trade in Pakistan has been exposed by the notorious Fawad Mumtaz, a plastic surgeon turned alleged criminal mastermind who has repeatedly evaded the law. His recent escape from FIA custody and subsequent rearrest highlights the dark web of organ trafficking in the country, spanning regions like Punjab, KP, AJK, and even involving clients from Gulf countries since 2009. Mumtaz is accused of exploiting both desperate donors and critically ill patients for financial gain, including a case resulting in the death of comedian Umer Sharif’s daughter following an illegal transplant. This illicit trade not only jeopardizes individual well-being but also threatens the ethical fabric of the medical community. It is essential to dismantle Mumtaz’s network and bring all involved parties to justice, including lawmakers, law enforcers, and the medical community. Strengthening the implementation of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 2010, and raising awareness about organ donation are crucial steps to combat this issue. Additionally, addressing poverty and providing support and rehabilitation to » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Caucasus conflict,” Dawn Editorial, October 4th, 2023

After more than three decades of conflict, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, one of the ‘frozen conflicts’ following the Soviet Union’s fall, may finally be nearing a resolution. This dispute, located within Azerbaijan but predominantly Armenian, has led to tens of thousands of casualties and mass displacement over the years. Recently, Azerbaijani forces achieved a decisive victory against separatists ruling Nagorno-Karabakh, prompting them to disband their unrecognized administration. However, this victory has caused thousands of ethnic Armenians to flee the region, fearing retaliation from Azerbaijan. The hope now is that these developments bring a lasting end to the violence in this volatile region, fostering an atmosphere of tolerance and tranquility. It is essential for Armenia and Azerbaijan to set aside historical enmity and work towards a new path to peace. Ensuring the safety and unhindered return of Armenian residents to Nagorno-Karabakh is crucial, along with » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Anti-smuggling drive,” Dawn Editorial, October 4th, 2023

The caretaker Interior Minister of Pakistan, Sarfraz Bugti, has openly acknowledged the involvement of security personnel in large-scale smuggling activities of currency, oil, and other commodities across the country’s borders with Iran and Afghanistan. This admission is a significant step in addressing the issue of smuggling, as it implicates security officials in illegal cross-border movements. It was also noted that the army chief had warned those involved in such practices that they would face court-martial and imprisonment. The government, in collaboration with the military, has initiated a crackdown on smugglers and hoarders following the army chief’s meetings with the business community, with the aim of curbing the substantial losses incurred due to pilferage. The coming weeks will test the resolve of civil and military authorities to expose and punish those engaged in illicit cross-border trade, including the smuggling of dollars, wheat, sugar, and cheap petroleum from neighboring countries. However, the problem of smuggling extends beyond the porous borders of » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Maldives and its neighbours,” Jawed Naqvi, Dawn, October 3rd, 2023

President Biden was engaging with leaders of Pacific Island nations while the Maldives, situated in the Indian Ocean, was experiencing an electoral run-off. The meeting highlighted the strategic importance of lands along sea-lanes frequented by China and Russia. Despite the electoral victory of Mohamed Muizzu, who is described as anti-India and pro-China, it’s unclear how India stands to lose from this outcome. This situation raises questions about India’s diplomatic relationships in South Asia, where countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and even Bhutan are pursuing diverse foreign policies. The article suggests that India’s foreign policy may need reevaluation, and the obsession » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Democracy stalls,” Dr. Niaz Murtaza, Dawn, October 3rd, 2023

The article highlights Pakistan’s complex relationship with democracy and the recurring desire for autocracy as a quick-fix solution to governance challenges. Despite being a democratic nation for 75 years, there remains no consensus on the importance of democracy among the population. Many mistakenly believe that good governance can be achieved through autocracy, prioritizing immediate economic progress, infrastructure development, and law and order over democratic principles like participation, tolerance, and human rights. The author argues that this perspective is naive, as history shows that regimes lacking in these principles ultimately fail to provide sustainable outcomes. The article also discusses various forms of autocracy and their limitations, emphasizing that democracy, despite its gradual maturation process » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Palestine abandoned,” Dawn Editorial, October 3rd, 2023

The possibility of a normalization agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israel is looming, despite uncertainties regarding the fate of the two-state solution. Signals from major stakeholders, including Riyadh, Tel Aviv, and Washington, suggest that a deal is on the horizon. While Saudi Arabia has expressed support for the two-state solution, this commitment may be compromised to achieve peace with Israel. The Palestinians may receive superficial assurances of support for statehood to facilitate the “mega-deal.” However, it’s unlikely that Israel will make significant concessions, particularly concerning the right of return and illegal settlements. This bilateral understanding between Riyadh and Tel Aviv, with Washington’s approval, places the Palestinians in a marginalized position. Even if the Palestinian Authority is persuaded by Saudi promises of funds and support, it doesn’t guarantee Palestinian acceptance of the deal, especially with the perception of the PA as corrupt and inefficient. Without the involvement of Hamas, which governs Gaza, the deal lacks comprehensive Palestinian support. Similar to previous attempts like Oslo and the Abraham Accords, the Saudi-Israeli normalization is unlikely to end the Israeli occupation or pave the way for a viable Palestinian state. If the deal proceeds, many Arab and Muslim nations may embrace friendship with Tel Aviv, despite extremist » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Relying on debt,” Editorial, Dawn, October 3rd, 2023

Pakistan is facing a concerning debt crisis that could lead to severe consequences if it loses access to the loans that are currently sustaining its economy. The country is grappling with various economic issues, including high inflation, large fiscal deficits, low productivity in industrial and agricultural sectors, a fragile balance of payments position, and a weak exchange rate. Due to its inability to collect sufficient taxes and generate enough dollars to cover imports, Pakistan heavily relies on cash injections from foreign lenders and global institutions like the IMF and the World Bank. In fact, Pakistan was the top borrower of cheaper funds from the International Development Association (IDA) in South Asia, securing $2.3 billion in financing from the IDA during the last fiscal year. The country’s growing dependence on domestic and external loans is exacerbating its debt burden, with total public debt reaching 74.3% of GDP by the end of FY23. This mounting debt is hindering the government’s ability to address inflation and stimulate economic growth. Despite warnings from multilateral agencies and other countries, Pakistan’s leadership has not taken adequate measures or implemented sound economic policies to address these issues. Instead, they continue to seek bailouts from Gulf monarchies. While such investments may offer temporary » Read More…