Pakistan’s sluggish economic growth is not just an economic issue but also a significant national security concern, states a report in the Pakistani media. The country’s security challenges are primarily linked to its economic decline rather than external factors like India, Afghanistan, or terrorism. Despite efforts in military strength and diplomacy, Pakistan faces a critical situation as poverty deepens while the population continues to increase.
The report emphasizes that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan has recorded its lowest growth rate in six decades, standing at 2.33% annually, barely keeping pace with population growth. The nation’s economic struggles have led to a rise in poverty levels, with millions of Pakistanis becoming poorer. The article criticizes the lack of urgency from the security establishment in addressing this slow-moving crisis, which it views as a significant strategic error.
Highlighting the demographic challenges, the report mentions that Pakistan’s median age is approximately 20, with a significant portion of youth aged 15–24 not engaged in employment, education, or training. It argues that a nation cannot maintain its strategic strength when its economic foundations are weakening. Additionally, the changing nature of warfare, shifting towards technologically advanced systems, poses further challenges for Pakistan’s military, which is still largely structured for traditional warfare methods.
The report also points out the absence of a concrete growth strategy in Pakistan, with the government relying on a stabilization narrative borrowed from the IMF. While foreign policy achievements are credited to certain individuals, the civilian government appears disconnected from key decision-making processes. The need for economic prioritization and modernization of defence systems is underscored as essential for Pakistan’s future stability and security.
