Cybersecurity in Pakistan: A Grave Vulnerability
Pakistan is one of the top 10 most vulnerable states when it comes to cybersecurity. Since cyberattacks can be carried out from any part of the world – with the possibility of the perpetrator never being caught – they present immense challenges for Pakistan. The author notes that 2018 was the most dangerous year for Pakistan due to the number of cyberattacks on the state’s institutions. He not only discusses the challenges Pakistan is facing from cybercrimes, but also provides recommendations for the state to counter them.
Pakistan Peoples Party: Zardari’s New Survival Strategy
Although the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has witnessed a shift in its leadership, the party’s reins are still controlled by Asif Ali Zardari. The author notes that the policies implemented by the former president have pushed Bilawal Bhutto to the shadows. He further explains that Zardari’s new strategy has landed the party in a tight spot; it now stands to lose its value to the ruling party and in the Pakistan Democratic Movement.
Diplomacy of Pakistan: Right Choices, Wrong Management
Pakistan’s past choices — the creation of Pakistan itself; the decision to join the American bloc; the decision to wage the war on terror; and choosing China as an ally — have defined its present status. Although these choices have been deemed appropriate, the mismanagement resulted in an economic downturn and an impairment of its diplomatic ability.
Pakistan and Russian Relations: A New Dawn
Although Pak-Russia relations have been marked by distrust and suspicion in the past, ties between the two states seem to be positively changing due to diplomatic visits and joint exercises. The recent visit of the Russian Foreign Minister to Pakistan and the mutual stance on the Afghan peace process have emboldened ties between the two nations. These bilateral relations have enormous potential in the areas of defence, mining, energy, tourism, among others.
Administrative Reforms in Pakistan: The Past, Present & Future
The article explores the administrative reforms in Pakistan from the time of the pre-independence era, and, in light of the present difficulties faced by the executive branch, suggests several recommendations that could address the faults in the system. While continuing to maintain its main role as a provider of public goods, the state will be expected to provide regulatory standards and maintain quality assurance to ensure that non-state actors can also provide high-quality services to the citizens.
The Informal Economy of Pakistan: Obstacles and Opportunities
The informal economy of Pakistan has increasingly complemented the formal sector, but the lack of capital and expertise are the main obstacles that persist. Hence, the government should take decisive measures in repairing these economic and fiscal anomalies.
Women’s Rights in Pakistan: Is the Aurat March the Way to Do It?
While the Aurat March in Pakistan aims to fight for women’s rights, the author, Rimsha Zia, questions if it is really the best course of action to take. She argues that due to the way the march has been conducted, along with the patriarchal, misogynistic and extremist attitudes in Pakistan’s society, it is impossible for the march to achieve its purpose. She also explains that the problem with Pakistan is not that it gives women no rights, but rather the lack of implementation to ensure these rights.
What is the SBP Amendment Act 2021?
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Act, 1956 is expecting the insertion of a new amendment through the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Amendment Act 2021. The provisions of the amendment dictate that the SBP would have the final and only say in the determination of related policies, which, according to many economists, has the potential to further impair the economy of Pakistan.
Farmers’ Protests in India: Modi’s Predicament
The introduction of three farm laws, and the revocation of Article 370 by the Indian government has left India with quite a few challenges. While gathering allies abroad, the Modi regime has neglected the state’s minorities and gone as far as to commit human rights violations. The author notes that the regime’s nationalist Western policies have only created resentment within the minority groups, and they will eventually cause India’s downfall.
The Marginalization of the Sikh Community in Peshawar
Over 60,000 Sikhs are living in Pakistan – most of them in KPK and surrounding areas. As a minority, the community faces a plethora of problems such as bullying, harassment, security threats, impediments in conducting business, obtaining an education, getting subsidized healthcare, and even registering themselves as citizens of Pakistan.
FATF Grey List: Pakistan’s Acid Test
Pakistan has once again failed to satisfy the Paris-based FATF with regards to the actions it is taking against terror financing and money laundering. The problem is the lack of international support. Even allies like China, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and the Gulf States refused to back Pakistan in the arena. The only supporter was Turkey.
Data Protection Laws in Pakistan: Resolving Privacy Concerns
The current pandemic has increased the significance of the internet manifold, allowing numerous businesses to survive online in the times of lockdowns imposed across the globe. However, it has also raised concerns of privacy and data protection, rendering it imperative for Pakistan to draft comprehensive data protection laws and the implementation thereof.
Corporal Punishment in Schools: A Tragic Norm in Pakistan
Corporal punishment in schools has become a culturally acceptable norm in Pakistan. Through the interviews she conducted with the teachers and students of different schools in Pakistan, the author notes that institutions are turning a blind eye to corporal punishment. This has left children alone to suffer the long-term psychological and physical impacts of the punishment, and forced them to drop out of school.
The Two Finger Test and the Dangers Associated with It
The Two Finger Test has long been used to test whether a woman raped has been engaged in habitual sexual intercourse. The author cites laws— both national and international —and credible authorities that denounce the practice of the two finger test because of its effect on the mental and physical well-being of a woman.
18th Amendment to the Constitution: Pakistan’s Dilemma
The 18th amendment to the constitution of Pakistan has subjected the state to a predicament. Although the articles amended are quite admirable, the author notes, despairingly no proper way is suggested to implement the provisions highlighted in it. She further elaborates that while it has delegated power to the provinces, it has also made the center weaker.
Pakistan Air Force vs Indian Air Force: A Perpetual Security Dilemma
The military rivalry of the Pakistan Air Force vs Indian Air Force has generated an ever increasing security dilemma in South Asia. This dilemma has forced the two competitors to pursue 5th generation technology. The author notes that in this race for dominance, acquiring aerial stealth technology can shift the power structure in Pakistan’s favor.
The Possibility of New Provinces in Pakistan
Ethnic and linguistic conflicts are considered to be the prominent reasons for the creation of new provinces in Pakistan. However, such action is presently not constitutionally recognized.
