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Journal of Politics and International Studies 12, 2024

Vol. 10, No. 1, January–June 2024, pp.197–211 Published:

June 15, 2024

The future of Democracy in Pakistan: Opportunities

and Challenges
Aiyza Mubarak
MS Scholar, Department of Politics and International Relations, GC Women
University Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan
Corresponding: ayezamubarak02@gmail.com
Sadia Nawaz
MS Scholar, Department of Politics and International Relations, GC Women
University Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan
Email: huraincheema937@gmail.com
Jawairia Khalid
MS Scholar, Department of Politics and International Relations, GC Women
University Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan
Email: jaweriakhalid471@gmail.com
Abstract
This article aims to explore the future of democracy in Pakistan by examining the
opportunities for democratic growth and the challenges that hinder its development.
Democracy in Pakistan has had a turbulent history, marked by alternating periods of
civilian rule, military intervention, and political instability. Despite these challenges,
Pakistan continues to strive to establish a strong democratic framework. Understanding
current trends and obstacles is essential to envisioning a sustainable democratic future.
The study uses a qualitative approach, analyzing historical trends, political
developments, and socio-economic factors. The study also examines secondary data,
including academic publications, policy reports, and expert opinions, to gain a complete
picture. The findings show that while there are promising opportunities, such as
increased political awareness, a vibrant media, and youth engagement, significant
challenges remain, such as corruption, weak institutions, and external pressures. The
balance between these factors will determine the trajectory of democracy in Pakistan. To
strengthen democracy, the country must prioritize institutional reforms, ensure
accountability, and promote civic education. Encouraging inclusion and protecting
democratic processes from interference will be essential for a sustainable and prosperous
democratic future.
Key Words: Democracy in Pakistan, Political stability, Military intervention,
Civilian rule, Vibrant Media, Youth engagement.

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Introduction
Democracy plays a vital role in building the political, economic and social fabric of
a nation and its importance in Pakistan is no different. In a country with a history of
coups, political instability and governance problems, democracy offers the promise
of representation, accountability and public participation in decision-making. It is
essential to ensure that the diverse voices of Pakistan's provinces, ethnic groups and
socio-economic classes are heard and respected. The future of democracy in
Pakistan is crucial not only for the country's internal stability but also for its relations
with neighboring countries and the international community at large.
However, the democratic governance in Pakistan has been mixed. On the one hand,
democratic processes have strengthened civil institutions, provided platforms for
political expression, and promoted economic reforms. On the other hand, the
country faced significant challenges related to corruption, political dynasties, weak
rule of law and military interventions. These factors have hindered the ability of
democracy to provide effective government and led to disillusionment among some
sectors of society. However, democratic resilience is evident, with strong civil
society movements, media freedom and increased youth participation indicating a
move towards a more vibrant democratic system.
The need for democracy in Pakistan is based, among others, on the recognition that,
despite the challenges it presents, democratic governance remains the most
sustainable path to inclusive development and lasting peace. The alternative
authoritarianism or military rule has proven harmful in the past, leading to political
oppression and economic mismanagement. While democracy in Pakistan faces
obstacles, opportunities such as digital activism, governance reforms and greater
public awareness offer hope for a stronger and more participatory future. Democracy
allows for self-correction and adaptation, giving Pakistan the opportunity to resolve
its problems within a legitimate and representative framework.
Literature Review
Zaidi (2005) describes in this article the groups and social classes that benefit most
from the creation of democratic institutions in Pakistan already have access to the
state and the web of power they have little need for “messy” participation and
accountability. Pakistan may be increasingly dominated by factions and groups of
the urban middle class and has a “modern urban spirit”. Unlike other countries where
emerging urban middle classes fought for social emancipation and collective
democracy, the Pakistani middle class, as this article shows, preferred to associate
with authoritarian and military governments. Moreover, Pakistan’s democratic
experiment in the 1990s was controlled and dominated by the military; Thus, the
very idea of democracy was met with little enthusiasm in Pakistan.
Kumar (2001) says in this article. When General Musharraf was overthrown by the
military in October 1999, the question of Pakistan's democracy was raised again.
Although the military pursued shadow governments, General Zia-ul-Haq's death in
1988 and the election-based rise of successive governments raised hopes that
Pakistan had moved to establish a democratic government. It seems that this hope
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has been confirmed by Nawaz Sharif's rise to power with a two-thirds majority. The
military coup in October 1999, however, exposed the fragility of Pakistan's
democratic experiment. Pakistan has been unable to establish democracy due to its
deeply feudal structure and inadequate political institutions.
Inayatullah, Inayatullah (1997) opinioned in this article in its fifty years of existence,
Pakistan has not seen a consistent consolidation of democracy since state institutions
have dominated political institutions. This is demonstrated by the lack of
constitutional underpinnings, a completely independent judiciary, a sophisticated
party system, and frequent and equitable elections. The odds of survival have
increased due to recent political developments, including the progressive removal
of state institutions particularly the military from the political arena, the expansion
of judicial authority, the parliamentary restraint of presidential powers, and the
population's growing political consciousness. of the nation's democracy. These
events, which ended in Khan's incarceration and prohibition from holding public
office, raised concerns about the future of Pakistani democracy. Political unrest is
not new in the country, but the mix of economic downturn, political tensions, and
natural calamities such as drought has compounded long-standing fears about the
country's stability. The odds of a real democracy arising in the near future are
unlikely, but if the primary institutional actors commit to working with politicians
rather than manipulating, abusing, and defaming them, Pakistan may be able to
reclaim lost ground and recover. Returning to some sense of normality.
Jalal (2024) explores in this article. On May 9, 2023, Pakistan saw a watershed
moment in its history when former Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested,
resulting in widespread riots and attacks on governmental institutions. These events,
which ended in Khan's incarceration and prohibition from holding public office,
raised concerns about the future of Pakistani democracy. Political unrest is not new
in the country, but the mix of economic downturn, political tensions, and natural
calamities such as drought has compounded long-standing fears about the country's
stability. The prospects of a real democracy arising in the foreseeable future may
seem inconceivable. However, Pakistan may be able to the likelihood of a real
democracy arising in the near future is remote, but if the primary institutional actors
commit to working with politicians rather than manipulating, abusing, and defaming
them, Pakistan may be able to reclaim its lost territory and recover. To a semblance
of normality.
Bibi and Jameel (2018) describes that Democracy is a popular type of administration
in modern global politics, according to Bibi and Jameel (2018). Free and fair
elections, the function of the media, education, justice, political parties, religious
tolerance, and so on are just a few of the many essential elements of a real
democracy. Since gaining its independence, Pakistan has had both authoritarian and
democratic regimes. Despite the country's several democratic regimes, Pakistani
politicians have not been able to provide the people with basic necessities. Among
the primary barriers to democracy's success are the absence of timely, free, and fair
elections, the gap between the populace and the political elite, military regulations,

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civil-military interactions, and the general lack of public awareness and education.
Thus, in order for Pakistani democracy to flourish, one of the biggest challenges to
democracy's success is the populace's lack of knowledge and awareness. Therefore,
improving these tools is equally essential for Pakistani democracy to flourish.
Sheikh (2009) opinioned that Pakistan is a country that receives relatively negative
international headlines, be it the suicide attack on the Marriott hotel in Islamabad or
the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai. In both tragic incidents, foreigners were
targeted and dozens of innocent people lost their lives. Pakistan thus escaped being
declared a terrorist country after accepting UN Security Council Resolution 1267,
passed on December 10, 2008. This resolution banned a number of militant
organizations and added several leaders to the list of terrorist organizations of the
UN. Pakistan has since taken tough action against Jamaat-ud-Daawa3, shutting
down the organization’s camps across the country and arresting a number of its
members. In accordance with the UN Security Council resolution, Pakistan seeks to
appease the international community, especially the United States and India,
probably at the cost of increasing resistance and discontent from within. The
Pakistani people are divided between those who understand the government’s
response and those who feel betrayed. This situation of perpetual fear and insecurity
is exacerbated by a faltering economy and energy and food crises. Pakistan is
struggling to maintain political stability. Since the February 18 elections, the
Pakistan People’s Party-led government has advanced the democratization process,
seeking to meet a host of domestic and international expectations. Some Western
observers fear that without direct military control, Pakistan could collapse or be
overrun by extremist religious groups. The question is therefore whether the new
Pakistani government will be able to continue both the democratization process and
the improvement of the human rights situation, as it claims.
Memon and Awan (2017) describes in this article The potential of cyberspace to
convert conventional or daily work systems into cyber services makes it an essential
part of today's reality. Several services have been used globally, such as e-
commerce, virtual learning, and e-health, to enable the provision of efficient
education and health services to people and to simplify the monitoring and
engagement of investors and consumers at any time. With a population of 182.1
million, 63% of Pakistan's population is under 25. The majority of the members of
this new society are "Netzians," and over 80% of them utilize the Internet and smart
technology regularly. If adequately engaged, the youth section has the potential to
propel the country forward to the next stage of political and economic independence.
Many of them serve as young leaders and are active in politics, human rights, labor
rights, journalism, science, and technology. All of these sectors are critical to
strengthening the country's democratic governance norms, and interactions amongst
these new leaders will result in the formation of a core of democracy and its
standards. Elections are critical in a democratic society for ensuring stability and
growth. However, the true issues are ensuring that election systems are free, fair,
trustworthy, and transparent. Transparent elections lessen the danger of violence
while promoting democracy, stability, peace, and prosperity. The experiences of

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past elections in Pakistan make it evident that such vital transparency and fairness
in the voting system can only be achieved via the proper use of cyberspace.
Akhtar (2009) says in this article in Pakistan, State elites have partnered with diverse
ethnic groups to further their political objectives. This has a negative impact on the
state's perception of equality and legitimacy. Creating a nation state is a long-term
historical process. This does not imply that Pakistan or other third-world countries
should go through the same phases of state formation as Europeans. We must stress
the difficult issues and limits that Pakistan has experienced since its inception in
1947. While the internal barriers to national integration are widely understood,
geopolitical influences from the regional and international environments must also
be recognized. This article's major premise is that countries and identities are
evolutionary processes that cannot be forcibly imposed. This article's main argument
is that nations and identities are evolutionary processes that can only be sustained
by policies that address the needs of component groups rather than being imposed
artificially and externally.
Khan (2000) explores that that Pakistan has the potential to rank among the most
developed emerging nations. It was a model emerging nation in the 1960s due to its
remarkable development rate and the greatest per capita GDP in South Asia. Even
yet, its democratic credentials were undermined, and the conclusion drawn from the
last three decades is that its issues were brought about by the shortcomings of its
governing class and political leaders. The author, who examines the first 100 days
of General Pervaiz Musharraf's military rule, warns against making snap decisions
and says there is reason for hope if the administration accepts the task of good
governance, follows a sensible economic strategy, and stays away from a risky one.
Rizvi (2011) explores that Pakistan's democratic past is not entirely clear. The
general elections in February 2008 and the installation of the federal and provincial
administrations chosen in March marked the beginning of the current attempts to
revitalize democratic governance and political management. Between 2008 and
2010, this democratic government system encountered several social, economic,
religious, and security issues. It cannot yet be said, however, that democratic
processes and institutions are irreversible. In Pakistan, this is the fourth effort to
create a stable, civic, and democratic system. The military's takeover of political
authority ended the first three attempts. Shortly after independence, in August 1947,
the first attempt to create a democratic political system started, and it continued until
General Ayub Khan, the army leader, assumed control in October 1958. The army
and bureaucracy assumed control throughout these years while political institutions
and procedures deteriorated.
Cohen (2011) opinioned that According to Cohen (2011), Pakistan is becoming a
more significant actor in world politics every day. With the second-largest Muslim
population in the world, the heart of global jihad, the world's most dangerous border
nations, and nuclear weapons, this South Asian nation will have a significant impact
on how the world is shaped in 10 years. A number of possibilities for the country's
near-term growth, evolution, and operation are presented and evaluated in The
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Future of Pakistan, along with the geopolitical ramifications of each. A group of

knowledgeable experts, led by Stephen P. Cohen, a well-known authority on South
Asia, looks at various aspects of the Pakistani problem.
Akhter (2012) describes in this article Today's liberals in Pakistan feel encircled by
conservative political groups, many of whom are Islamist. Liberal concerns about a
globally accepted theocracy in Pakistan were heightened by incidents like religious
parties' ongoing celebration of the 2011 murder of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer,
who had suggested changes to Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Pakistani liberals have
lost trust in democratic politics as a result of this anxiety, and many now back
military interventions and authoritarian governments. One However, Pakistan's
Islamic political parties have never performed well in elections and frequently gain
from military governments. The issue of how Islam should be incorporated into a
democracy is becoming more and more relevant as a civilian administration enters
Pakistan's first elections with a genuine democratic president and Washington's
"global war on terror" lends more credibility to the anti-American stances of Islamist
groups. There is an urgent situation in Pakistan.
Gregory (2016) says in this article for the first time in Pakistan's 66-year history, an
elected government in May 2013 stepped down and was replaced by a civilian
administration chosen by popular vote. Twelve eminent academics and writers are
brought together in this book at this significant juncture in Pakistan's history to offer
a thorough examination of the country's current state and developing tendencies.
Three thematic sections namely, the democratic transition (including Islam and
democracy, civil-military relations, and the economy), contested borders, and
disputed areas (the Pashtun belt, Kashmir, and intra-Islamic conflict) are based on
historical data, a variety of theoretical viewpoints, and empirical data. and
regionalism (the dynamics of nuclear weapons, US-Pakistan ties, and bilateral
interactions as seen from Pakistani and Indian viewpoints). In order to provide a
thorough analysis of the current domestic and regional challenges and their effects
on the region, as well as evidence of some encouraging trends for Pakistan's future,
the contributors collectively examine the state of Pakistan's democratic transition,
contemporary security dynamics, and broader regional security and political
dynamics, as well as the intricate interactions between these three areas.
Nasr (1992) describes in this article It has been four years since Pakistan regained
its democracy. The struggles of the last four years have not been comforting to
Pakistanis who had thought that democracy would usher in a period of development
and prosperity for their nation. Democracy's promise is not without risks and
difficulties. Huntington referred to this as "authoritarian nostalgia" as a result of the
escalation of political issues and the disappointment that followed the restoration of
democracy. The emergence of democracy has not been a panacea for Pakistan's
sociopolitical issues; rather, it has been accompanied by a progressive deterioration
of political institutions, social unrest, and economic stagnation. Three prime
ministers, each from a different party, have led Pakistan since 1988, when there were
two general elections. Economic growth has halted, institutional capacities have
been exhausted, ethnic conflict has escalated, and national and local decision-

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making has become muddled. To put it succinctly, "the combination and interaction
of low legitimacy and low effectiveness"2 has accelerated instability, making
democratic Pakistan the focal point of a "crisis of governance" that has arisen as a
result of the democratization process and the most obvious barrier to its full success.
Hashmi (2022) explores in this article Pakistan has had numerous issues since its
founding, but they are all primarily related to governance. The current issues have
created a socio-political environment that is hostile to the strengthening of
democratization, from the first migration crisis in the hostile neighborhood to the
lack of infrastructure, the conflict between the central provinces, the clientelistic
political system, etc. The process. Unusual and unconstitutional transfers of power
from civilian to military regimes have resulted in an unstable, dysfunctional and
undemocratic institutional arrangement. Pakistan's history underwent a sea change
during the 2008–2013 civilian government, which attempted to take advantage of
the opportunity to incorporate democratic norms into the system by enacting the
18th constitutional amendment. The study's goal is to showcase Pakistan's
governance model by analyzing how the institutional structure functions to
strengthen democracy in the country.
Methodology
This study uses a qualitative methodology. Researcher used secondary source of
data for this article. Secondary data is obtained from texts, books and other sources
obtained from libraries and internet. The secondary qualitative data collected
informed the development of the technical and analytical methods used to conduct
this study and draw conclusions. The purpose of this study is to examine the identify
opportunities to strengthen its democratic processes and institutions. And challenges
of democracy in Pakistan.
To explore the future of democracy in Pakistan, focusing on its opportunities and
challenges, this study will use a qualitative approach that will include an in-depth
analysis of the existing literature on democratic institutions, electoral systems and
the relationship between civilians and military of Pakistan. Primary data will be
collected from academic articles, texts and internet.
Challenges
Absence of democratic norms
The lack of true democratic norms in Pakistan is due to conflicts between political
parties and their leaders, who prioritize their own interests over those of the people.
Despite claiming to fight for democracy, parties like PPP and PMLN have failed to
address the rights of minorities and basic needs of the population. Leaders like
Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif have made promises but have not fulfilled them,
perpetuating anti-democratic norms in the country (Shafqat,19098).

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Parties in power and the constitution

Pakistan has had three constitutions since gaining its independence: 1956, 1962, and
1973. This also includes two significant attempts at constitutional engineering (in
1985 and 2002) and two temporary constitutional accords (in 1947 and 1972). The
primary goal of all these initiative to shift the balance of power in government favor.
The role of political parties and democracy
Political parties play a crucial role in the advancement and growth of democracy. In
Pakistan, political parties serve as a vehicle for patronage and public mobilization.
But changing the function of political parties to represent and protect their interests
in parliament is the biggest obstacle facing political leaders. Regretfully, rather than
supporting and advancing democratic principles, policies, and behaviors, the rule of
law, and tolerance of opposition parties, politicians instead embrace authoritarian
policies and attitudes. The Supreme Court of Pakistan was assaulted by PMLN
supporters in November 1997, but the leaders chose not to detain them.
Lack of credibility of elections
True democracy is characterized by frequent, free, and fair elections. Pakistani
elections, however, have a dismal record in this area. As a result, all of the losing
parties accuse the victor of election tampering and declare it to be unjust after the
election. When parties gain power, they also tamper with election results. Pakistan's
multi-party system makes it challenging for any party to secure a certain majority.
Because of this, a coalition government was typically required, and some parties
managed to hold onto power even though they received fewer seats in the elections.
For instance, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) emerged as the nation's second-
largest party after the PMLN secured the majority of the vote in the May 2013
elections. There are significant concerns over the openness of this crucial political
activity after PTI chairman Imran Khan claimed that the 2013 elections were rigged.
The communication gap between political leaders and the general public
Both military and civilian authorities held power in Pakistan. Despite the fact that
practically all political leaders support democracy, they are not really interested in
creating and advancing true democratic norms and practices in this nation that lacks
democracy. Once in power, political leaders attempt to disassociate themselves from
common people, notwithstanding their public appearances to get votes.
State of Democracy in Pakistan
To understand the future of democracy in Pakistan, seven criteria are used in this
analysis. These are:
 The steady transformation of political systems and institutions toward a
democratic model predicated on the rule of law, the equality of all individuals,
and the protection of fundamental human liberties. Shifts in the institutional
power dynamics between political and governmental entities.

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 The rise of a pluralist nation or political community where the significant

material and ideological divides are reduced through a process of tolerance,
acceptance, and compromise; additionally, the ongoing integration and
strengthening of sexes, groups, and underprivileged social classes; and finally,
the inclusion of cultural, ethnic, and religious minorities in the political
community on an equal footing.
 The ongoing development of democratic norms and ideals in society, which
leads to improved and mutually beneficial relationships between a democratic
society and democratic political regime.

 The expansion of democracy beyond the political and civic realms to the
economic one, where democracy is characterized by access for the
underprivileged to engage in their economic, scientific, and technical destinies,
in addition to voting and pluralism.

 Native democracy, which allows Pakistanis to be creative in creating their own

political structures that are in line with their epistemic, cultural, religious, and
historical commitments. Extending the democratic discourse to local ways of
knowing is one aspect of it.

 The release of a nation-state or society from the limitations of the global order
that impede the realization of its democratic potential. The first four elements
and the final one are our primary emphasis (Inayatullah & Inayatullah,1997).
Democratization of Political Institutions
Pakistan’s democratic record is mixed, with political institutions such as the
legislature, political parties, the judiciary, and the press making only limited
contributions to its survival. The country has struggled to develop a stable
constitutional framework, with several constitutions written and amended over the
years. The 1973 Constitution has survived and enjoyed relatively greater support
from political parties and interest groups after the 13th Amendment. However, some
undemocratic features persist, leading to frequent breakdowns of the constitutional
order and disrespect for the Constitution among powerful groups. Legislative
institutions have not yet matured, with the National Assembly having been dissolved
several times in its history, sometimes due to coups or coups d’état. Since 1988,
Pakistan’s president has repeatedly abused his power, leading to political instability
and declining voter turnout. The political parties have not been able to remove these
powers because they are not trusted and do not have the majority in the National
Assembly. The Federal Sharia Court also limited the powers of the National
Assembly. Leaders often use legislative institutions to stay in power instead of
allowing them to exercise their democratic functions. President Leghari tried to

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further consolidate his powers during his tenure, but faced challenges from the
Supreme Court.
The establishment of the National Defense and Security Council (NSDC) In
Pakistan has been questioned because it would have formalized the role of the
military in politics and given the president more power than the prime minister.
However, it was defended as a means of guaranteeing democracy and stability in
the country by preventing political instability and military rule. The CDNS was
suspended after the Thirteenth Amendment reduced the president to a figurehead,
which could improve the future of democracy in Pakistan. The country’s history
shows a lack of tolerance for political opposition, with leaders often questioning its
legitimacy and using repressive measures against it. Although Pakistan has been
democratic for ten years, the culture of tolerance towards the opposition is still
missing. The government victimized the opposition, leading to riots and attempts to
overthrow the government. However, some signs of public fatigue with this
behavior are reflected in the drop-in voter turnout. The changes are limited, with
some choices considered fair. Democratic institutions in Pakistan remain weak and
fragile, without a strong political culture or tradition to function autonomously
(Inayatullah & Inayatullah ,1997).
Deep Structural Inequalities and the Future of Democracy
The emergence of an imbalance in development and, consequently, in the power of
state institutions vis-à-vis political institutions is closely linked to Pakistan's failure
to establish a middle class that is pro-democracy, to remove feudal lords from
political power, and to change the country's political system through political
movements. The dominance of a strong military and civilian bureaucracy in
Pakistani politics, as well as the frailty of political institutions derived from their
historical evolution, are examples of this mismatch. The development of the two
institutions military and civil bureaucracy was given top priority by the British
government because it sought to create an efficient system of internal defense and
security as well as an administrative structure that could manage the Indian
population and guarantee the stability of its rule. The two influential institutions
were raised in a colonial setting and, for structural and historical reasons, are not
dedicated to democracy. They were not created to benefit society as a whole, but
rather to safeguard colonial interests. The military and bureaucracy have created an
ideology and a set of perceptions to support their direct and indirect engagement in
the democratic process.
Pakistan's political life has always been heavily influenced by the military and
bureaucracy, which frequently impede the democratic process. Although the
military no longer directly participates in politics as much as it once did, it
nonetheless has a significant impact on important political choices. Despite its
strength, the civil bureaucracy is becoming less politically influential. Although
military commanders have influenced political institutions, their impact on the
judiciary's independence has been greater. Although it hasn't always succeeded, the
court had to stand up for its independence and the defense of basic rights. Pakistan’s
judicial system has improved and rendered rulings that it would not have under
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martial law since the country's democratic ten years. Nonetheless, there is no
guarantee that the legal system will turn into a stronghold of democracy. Particularly
when it comes to the reestablishment of the assembly, their judgments are uneven.
Benazir Bhutto's tenure saw a decline in the relationship between the prime minister
and the judiciary. A 1996 Supreme Court ruling that curtailed the executive branch's
ability to unilaterally select judges stymied judicial politics. This enhanced the
judiciary's independence. It might be a sign of Pakistan's democracy's progress if
the judiciary keeps up its judicial activism on behalf of the people (Inayatullah &
Inayatullah, 1997).
Opportunities
Youth Engagement
Pakistan has a young population, more than 60% of which are under 30 years of age.
Engaging young people in political and civic processes can bring new perspectives
and innovative solutions, leading to positive democratic change and long-term
growth.
Strengthen civil society
Pakistan has an active civil society that supports rights, justice and accountability.
Civil society organizations (CSOs) and advocacy groups play a key role in raising
awareness, monitoring government actions and promoting citizen engagement. The
support of these groups can improve transparency and build public trust in
democratic institutions.
Digital media development and access to information
The proliferation of social media and digital platforms offers opportunities for
citizen journalism, information sharing and public debate. Digital platforms allow
more people to participate in the political debate, which can lead to a more informed
electorate and encourage transparency.
Strengthen local communities
Decentralization through local government reforms allows for better representation
at the local level. Empowering local governments can improve service delivery,
encourage citizen participation and address community issues more effectively,
thereby strengthening democracy at all levels.
Increase the political participation of women
With its focus on gender equality, Pakistan has seen increased mobilization for
women’s political participation. Supporting women leaders and creating inclusive
policies can foster a more representative democracy that addresses various issues,
including those related to gender and the family.

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Economic reforms and stability

Economic growth and stability can reduce public discontent, helping people focus
on long-term democratic goals rather than short-term solutions. Economic reforms
that promote job creation, reduce poverty and improve living standards can
strengthen public support for democratic governance.
Contributions of the diaspora
The Pakistani diaspora can contribute financially and intellectually to the
democratic development of the country. Many members of the diaspora are
committed to promoting democracy, human rights and economic development in
Pakistan, providing resources and international connections.
Electoral and judicial reform
Electoral reforms aimed at ensuring fair, transparent and accessible elections can
strengthen trust in democratic processes. Judicial reforms aimed at ensuring fair and
efficient legal systems can also strengthen the rule of law, which is essential for
democratic stability.
The public demand for responsibility
Public demand for accountability and transparency in governance is growing. This
demand can motivate leaders and institutions to focus on anti-corruption measures,
transparency and ethical governance, thus strengthening public trust in democratic
institutions.
Improve civic education and awareness
Civic education initiatives aimed at increasing public understanding of democratic
rights and responsibilities can lead to greater voter participation, informed decision-
making, and a stronger sense of civic duty among citizens.
Conclusion
The future of democracy in Pakistan rests on a complex mix of opportunities and
challenges. Pakistan has a young population, growing political awareness, an active
civil society and better access to digital platforms, all of which can foster democratic
engagement. In addition, international support and regional partnerships offer ways
to strengthen democratic norms and practices.
However, Pakistan also faces significant challenges, including political instability,
weak democratic institutions, economic disparities, and the continued influence of
anti-democratic forces, particularly in civil-military relations. Corruption, weak rule
of law and problems such as extremism also complicate democratic development.
To ensure a sustainable democratic future, Pakistan must focus on strengthening its
institutions, implementing electoral reforms, promoting the rule of law and engaging
its citizens through education and media freedom. Economic growth and social well-
being are equally essential to bring tangible benefits to the population, which helps
build trust in democratic governance. Through the dedicated efforts of its leaders
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and citizens, Pakistan has the potential to overcome these challenges and work
towards a more resilient and inclusive democratic system.
Results and Discussion
In its fifty years of existence, Pakistan has not seen a consistent consolidation of
democracy since state institutions have dominated political institutions. This is
demonstrated by the lack of constitutional underpinnings, a completely independent
judiciary, a sophisticated party system, and frequent and equitable elections. The
odds of survival have increased due to recent political developments, including the
progressive removal of state institutions—particularly the military—from the
political arena, the expansion of judicial authority, the parliamentary restraint of
presidential powers, and the population's growing political consciousness.
The capacity of the elected authorities to address the significant issues of financial
fragility, excessive debt, galloping inflation, economic inequality, and ethnic and
religious tensions will determine its future cohesion the future of democracy in
Pakistan cannot be accurately predicted by democracy alone. Pakistan's democracy
is unstable, as seen by its lengthy and recurring military rule and periodic failures.
Nevertheless, the nation is not destined to adopt an authoritarian system to stop its
slide into anarchy, and the democratic choice is not inevitably doomed due to the
democratic system's historical shortcomings and present shortcomings.
Both authoritarian and democratic potentials abound in Pakistani society. The
internal dynamics of Pakistan's political and social growth, as well as its link to the
global order, will determine whether one of these two options comes to pass. An
earlier piece about Pakistan's future concentrated on the vision of the future that will
propel the nation ahead.
These include the Islamic socialist notion of "roti, makan" (food, clothes, and
shelter); the belief that Pakistan was once a place of morality and purity, a place
where Muslims could live in safety. According to the East Asian model of an
authoritarian and disciplined capitalist society, Pakistan is a developing country that
is rapidly approaching middle-income status. The mythical image of the ideal
Muslim regime, guided by the words and deeds of the Prophet of Islam, stems from
the loss of its sovereignty and the fear of the country collapsing, either internally
from a military invasion of India or culturally from the infiltration of Western media.
Recommendations
 Strengthening the independence of the judiciary, improving judicial processes,
increasing the transparency of legislation, promoting civil-military separation,
ensuring electoral transparency and reducing manipulation through technology
and training programs.

 Strengthening the independence of the Electoral Commission, implementing

anti-corruption measures, training an impartial police and bureaucracy,

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 Aiyza Mubarak, Sadia Nawaz & Jawairia Khalid

promoting transparency, integrating the ‘civic education in schools, the

education of citizens on critical consumption.

 Inform and encourage the political participation of young people and women for
a more inclusive democracy.
 Enact laws to protect journalists and media freedom, fight disinformation,
support online freedom of expression, fight economic inequality, create job
opportunities, invest in health and education, respond to complaints ethnic and
regional and against extremism through economic opportunity and education.
 Focus on national democratic development, work with international
organizations for advice and assistance, improve diplomatic relations with
democratic countries, and participate in global democratic networks for
knowledge sharing and sup.

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 The future of Democracy in Pakistan: Opportunities and Challenges

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