SUMMARY of the Article “Pakistan at 77,” by Samuel Rizk, Dawn, August 14th, 2024
In this reflective piece, Samuel Rizk, the UNDP resident representative in Pakistan, offers a nuanced analysis of Pakistan’s journey as it marks its 77th Independence Day. Despite the nation’s pride and natural beauty, Pakistan faces significant challenges as it recovers from the dual blows of the Covid-19 pandemic and the devastating 2022 floods. The country remains highly vulnerable to climate change and continues to struggle with macroeconomic instability, debt, and security concerns. These issues are compounded by unresolved governance challenges, which hinder the nation’s ability to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. The article underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges, especially as Pakistan has only six years left to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Alarmingly, the country is projected to achieve only 35 out of 169 targets, with poverty at 40 percent and significant gender disparities. The literacy rate among women and girls is a mere 46 percent, and nearly 22 million children are out of school. Rizk highlights three critical areas of focus for Pakistan’s future: investing in human capital, particularly by empowering women and youth; preparing for a resilient, sustainable economy that adapts to climate challenges; and enhancing Pakistan’s global presence by committing to human rights, civic engagement, and strong trade practices. By » Read More…