Editorial
Pakistan’s federal structure holds immense potential to improve governance by making it more inclusive, responsive, and efficient. At its core, federalism recognizes the country’s diversity—ethnic, linguistic, and geographic—and offers a governance model that respects and empowers regional identities. By distributing power between the federal and provincial governments, federalism ensures that decisions are made closer to the people they affect, enhancing both accountability and relevance.
One of the key advantages of federalism is its ability to decentralize power. In Pakistan, where provinces have distinct needs and priorities, this decentralization allows for policies and public services to be tailored to local realities. For example, health, education, and infrastructure requirements vary dramatically from Balochistan to Punjab. With greater provincial autonomy, governments can design initiatives that are contextually appropriate, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all policies from Islamabad.
The 18th Constitutional Amendment was a transformative step in this direction. By abolishing the concurrent list and transferring a host of responsibilities to the provinces, it marked a significant shift toward devolution. More importantly, it increased the provinces’ share in financial resources, enabling them to take real charge of their development agendas. This fiscal empowerment is vital for meaningful governance—without resources, autonomy remains a paper promise.
However, the real challenge lies in implementation. Many provincial governments still lack the institutional capacity to deliver effectively. Weak bureaucracies, skill gaps, and inconsistent planning often result in underperformance, despite increased authority. Therefore, strengthening provincial institutions, improving human resource capacity, and modernizing administrative structures must be prioritized.
Moreover, coordination between federal and provincial units remains essential. The Council of Common Interests (CCI) and similar mechanisms should be strengthened to ensure consensus on national matters like energy, water, and internal security. Cooperation—not competition—between provinces can foster national integration and shared progress.
In essence, federalism is not just a constitutional arrangement but a path to better governance. If nurtured with institutional reforms, administrative capacity, and intergovernmental harmony, federalism can serve as the foundation for a stronger, more democratic, and united Pakistan.
