Editorial
The rising poverty in Pakistan has not received the attention it deserves in national discourse. Recent reports, though debated, indicate that more than 40% of the population lives below the poverty line. This is not just a statistic; it is a red line, a signal of deep societal distress. Millions of Pakistanis do not have the resources to meet basic needs, and yet, the issue is neither a political priority nor a focal point in policy discussions.
One of the major challenges is the elite-centered structure of the economy. Macroeconomic indicators may appear positive, but they rarely reflect the lived realities of ordinary citizens. The economy is neither truly capitalistic in the liberal sense nor designed to ensure social safety for the population. Trickle-down benefits, if any, are minimal, while elite groups continue to benefit disproportionately. The lack of social security programs, skill development, and poverty alleviation initiatives exacerbates the crisis.
Pakistan’s leadership must understand that a federation of 250 million people cannot sustain itself if nearly half the population struggles for survival. Ignoring this reality risks societal fracture and, ultimately, could undermine the state itself. Addressing poverty is not only a moral obligation but a strategic necessity for national stability.
The solution is straightforward but urgent: prioritize poverty alleviation, design comprehensive social programs, and implement policies that reach ordinary citizens rather than elite pockets. Without immediate attention, the structural inequalities will deepen, pushing millions further into vulnerability. The state must act now, with clear focus on human resources development, equitable economic policies, and social protection measures.
The message is simple: poverty is not a side issue. It is a fundamental challenge threatening the cohesion and future of Pakistan. Recognizing the crisis and addressing it decisively should guide policymaking, political discourse, and social mobilization. Public interest must come first, and the state must act before the cracks in society widen beyond repair.
