Human security Challenges in Pakistan: A Snapshot

Before 1991, security mainly focused on military power and protecting states from external threats, especially during the Cold War, with an emphasis on the balance of power between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. After the Cold War, thinkers like Barry Buzan encourage a broader view of security, including economic, environmental, and social factors. The 1994 UN Human Development Report introduced the concept of “human security,” which aims to protect people from various threats and improve overall well-being by addressing the root causes of insecurity.

In 2023-2024, Pakistan experienced significant political repression, economic difficulties, militant violence, human rights abuses, and increasing climate risks. The government’s actions often worsened the situation for vulnerable populations. In 2023, Pakistan faced numerous political and economic challenges. The government imposed strict controls on media, NGOs, and political opponents, making it hard for them to operate freely. It used harsh counterterrorism and sedition laws to silence peaceful critics, causing journalists and civil society groups to self-censor out of fear. The government’s term ended in August 2023, leading to an interim government under a caretaker party. Elections scheduled for November 2023 were delayed due to incomplete census and constituency processes, increasing political instability.

Economically, the situation was tough. The population suffered from high inflation, poverty, and unemployment. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) urged Pakistan to cut subsidies, worsening the situation for the poor without adequate support. The severe floods of 2022 added to the economic problems, leaving millions in need. The regional government’s efforts to provide land titles and financial aid for house construction to flood victims were insufficient.

Religious minorities faced increased violence in 2023, partly due to strict blasphemy laws. The Ahmadiyya community is often targeted for example, in August, a mob attacks an Ahmadi-owned factory in Lahore after accusations of blasphemy, but the authorities charge the Ahmadi community members instead of the attackers. Christians also suffer, with a mob attacking a Christian settlement in Faisalabad after two members are accused of blasphemy.

Militant attacks increases in the country, with groups like Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State of Khorasan Province (ISKP) launching deadly assaults, mainly targeting law enforcement and religious minorities, causing many deaths and injuries. In 2023, the government continued to suppress media and civil society, with journalists and activists facing threats, harassment, and arrests. One case involved a journalist detained while trying to leave the country, only released in September, 2023. Despite a court ruling against sedition laws, the government continues to use them against opponents and journalists. NGOs also face repression, with reports of government intimidation and harassment, and restrictive regulations hinder the operations of international humanitarian and human rights organizations.

Violence against women and girls is widespread, including incidents of rape, domestic violence, acid attacks, and honor killings, with a low conviction rate for rape cases. Millions of girls are subjected to early and forced marriages that crush their health and keep poverty alive. The government contributes very little to remedy these issues. Child workers, such as a 14-year-old tortured by employers in Karachi and another beaten to death, face severe abuse. Thousands of children, especially girls, are not attending school due to poverty, gender discrimination, and safety concerns.

Climate change makes Pakistan increasingly vulnerable, impacting agriculture and water resources. Efforts fall short of addressing long-term consequences. Government control of NGOs hinders international humanitarian and human rights work. Unregistered Afghan refugees face harassment, threats of forced deportation, and exploitation. International bodies urge Pakistan to ensure voluntary and respectful repatriation. Efforts to improve prison conditions, including better access to healthcare and sanitation, fall short, with mental health care in prisons lacking, leading to neglect and abuse and the prevalence of solitary confinement adding to the risks for those with mental health conditions.

It is an era in which Pakistan needs a paradigm shift to come out of its crisis towards coherent, resilient stability. The government must step up on inclusive governance, indeed restoring media freedom, political transparency or legal reforms that protect human and religious rights. Subsidize the most affected economic groups and social security for the needy people. Any effort to combat climate change is going to require a lot of sustainable infrastructure, and an effective disaster response program. Legal frameworks and support systems need to be enhanced for women, children and minorities. Prisons must provide better conditions. Stability and resilience can best be catalysed through international partnerships for humanitarian aid, refugee protection. Focussing in these key areas can build a more stable, resilient and inclusive society for all its citizens of Pakistan.