Republic Policy has a clear yet critical position on the creation of new provinces in Pakistan. In our view, Pakistan is a federal republic, and therefore the debate on new provinces should focus on the creation of new federal units, rather than merely dividing the country into administrative areas. A federal unit is not simply an administrative territory created for convenience; it is a constitutional, political and fiscal entity within the federation.
Republic Policy presents this central argument in its recent book, Beyond Four Provinces: Why Pakistan Needs Federal Units, Not Administrative Units. The book argues that Pakistan needs new federal units, while administrative efficiency and effective public service delivery should primarily be ensured through strong and empowered local governments. Local government is not merely an administrative arrangement; it is the fundamental institution through which governance reaches citizens at the grassroots level.
The book also examines in detail the constitutional and political process for creating new provinces, along with their financial sustainability, distribution of resources, administrative structures and relationship with the federation. Its purpose is not simply to propose an increase in the number of provinces, but to explain how new federal units can be constitutionally created and made financially and administratively viable.
Republic Policy’s new book is now available in the market. Readers interested in obtaining a copy may contact Republic Policy.
