Pakistan’s 14th rank in the most fragile states of the world is an indictment of our country’s failing state institutions.
This ranking is based on social, economic and political indicators including the ability of the state to withstand economic crisis, deal with destruction caused by natural calamities and sustain political stability. Pakistan faces challenges like refugee crisis, brain drain etc.
Although Pakistan has shown improvement since launch of Operation Zarb e Azb under General Raheel Shareef, there is a lot that needs to be done. Loopholes exist in border security. Money laundering and the smuggling of weapons across borders are only a few of the recurring problems faced by the state. While it is the duty of the state to serve the people, individuals are suffering at the hands of the state. State paid officials financially suffer the most while those who gain offices through elections enjoy other perks along with high salaries. All of these factors are affecting the socio-economic development in our country.
ALI MALIK,
Lahore, July 1.