Author: Maxter ʚïɞ

This author has written 2722 articles

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…

SUMMARY of “Southern Conundrum,” Mohammad Ali Babakhel, Dawn, October 2nd, 2023

The southern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has a tumultuous history, known for its freedom-loving anti-imperialists and religiously devoted residents. It comprises 36% of KP’s total area, divided into three divisions and 12 districts. The region shares borders with Afghanistan, making it a sensitive area with reported militant concentrations. The demographics have shifted due to militancy and counterterrorism operations, causing migration to urban areas like Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, and Kohat. Militancy in south KP results from historical, political, and socioeconomic factors, compounded by its diverse tribal dynamics, languages, and sectarian diversity. Marginalization, poverty, unemployment, and inadequate access to education contribute to radicalization and militant recruitment among the youth. Poor infrastructure has hindered economic development and connectivity, with railway stations and airports in disrepair. » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Courting Controversy,” Maleeha Lodhi, Dawn, October 2nd, 2023

The interim government in Pakistan is facing unnecessary political controversies when its primary duty should be ensuring free and fair elections. Statements from the caretaker prime minister and some cabinet members have raised questions about the inclusivity of the upcoming elections. The prime minister’s comment that elections could be fair without Imran Khan and his jailed party members sparked criticism from the PTI and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. The interim interior minister’s remarks about arresting Nawaz Sharif also drew ire from PML-N leaders. Political parties are expressing concerns about a lack of a level playing field for the polls, questioning the impartiality of the interim government and the Election Commission. This controversy highlights a gap between the caretaker government’s role and its actions, contrary to what is prescribed by the Elections Act of » Read More…

SUMMARY of “Refugee Question,” Huma Yusuf, Dawn, October 2nd, 2023

The refugee issue has gained prominence recently, raising questions about the relevance of the UN’s refugee convention. A significant portion of the public in the US and the UK feels that immigration is too high, as per a Financial Times poll. Pakistan faces a dilemma as both a host and exporter of refugees. It is under pressure to sign the UN refugee convention due to hosting over 2 million Afghan refugees. Still, it is also deporting undocumented Afghan refugees, causing international concern. Pakistan’s policies are ill-equipped to manage this challenge effectively. While it may use deportations as a tool to address cross-border militancy, it should consider the benefits of welcoming refugees and sign the UN refugee convention with Western allies’ support. Such a stance would enhance » Read More…