Opinion | Is Pakistan a failed state?

If Pakistan wishes to transition into a moderate and stable nation, it must cease its support for terrorism, violence and crises, only then can it hope for assistance from growing nations like India to help stabilize its internal situation.

In the present times, the answer is yes, considering Pakistan’s current state—a nation grappling with economic collapse, social instability, political hegemony, religious polarization, military dictatorship, and international restrictions imposed by FATF. Additionally, the failed CPEC project and links to extremism have further compounded the challenges.
There have been significant security failures, both internally and externally, with interference in the nation’s integrity and sovereignty. Recent instances of the Pakistani army’s alleged involvement in money laundering cases, including those from the USA, Saudi Arabia, and most recently China, have raised serious concerns.
The proliferation of illegal weapons and the increasing influence of the Taliban and its supporters in Pakistan are among the root causes of the weakening of democracy and its credibility on the international stage. Pakistan has, for a significant part of its history, been under dictatorship, which has drawn widespread criticism and resulted in sanctions.
Corruption at both political and bureaucratic levels has led to rising prices and exacerbated poverty crises. Pakistan has faced allegations from various countries of providing shelter to terrorist organizations.
Internally, there are growing movements by different groups within Pakistan, such as the Balochis advocating for Balochistan and Pashtuns for Pashtunistan. Pakistan has faced accusations of committing atrocities and violating human rights in Balochistan in its efforts to quell these rebellions. Amnesty International has repeatedly called on Pakistan to halt these alleged atrocities in Balochistan.
Imran Khan, who won the election after 24 years and believed firmly that Pakistan’s primary obstacle was supporting extremism and religious polarization, while also striving to remove Pakistan from international black and gray lists. His goal was to gain global recognition and change Pakistan’s image of supporting terrorism. However, he has now been removed from office, allegedly illegally and unconstitutionally, with the support and interference of other countries.
This situation raises concerns about the integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan, especially considering that Pakistan possesses nuclear capabilities. It indicates that the international community must take a leading role in preventing terrorism resulting from the potential misuse of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons to safeguard the safety of humanity.
India has been gaining global recognition in foreign policy, foreign trade, business, and technology. It has established strong ties with numerous countries. In contrast, Pakistan has faced international isolation due to its association with terrorism and its activities in Kashmir, which have led to the perception of Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism.
If Pakistan wishes to transition into a moderate and stable nation, it must cease its support for terrorism, violence and crises, only then can it hope for assistance from growing nations like India to help stabilize its internal situation.
Any country experiencing internal crises faces obstacles to progress. Pakistan, as a developing nation, is particularly vulnerable, and any misfortune could lead to its downfall. Pakistan must take a proactive role in eliminating terrorism and support other countries facing similar challenges.
While Kashmir is an issue of concern, it should not take precedence over the integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Pakistan should prioritize eliminating terrorism and disassociating itself from it to pave the way for progress. Stability in political, economic, and geopolitical matters, along with strong international relations, is the need of the hour.
Pakistan should initiate dialogue with neighboring countries and embark on a new path with dignity and honor. A fresh beginning and a renewed commitment to peace and cooperation are essential for the nation.
We should not blame the entire nation of Pakistan for supporting terrorism or desiring to spread terrorism and harm innocent people. Instead, it is the actions of certain agencies, such as the ISI, whose narratives, fanaticism, and covert policies have caused harm to the nation’s integrity and sovereignty. The people of Pakistan are suffering due to the misguided individuals who value human beings based on religion and race rather than recognizing our shared humanity.
Beyond the government, people have a crucial role and responsibility in shaping their nation. They can prevent their country from declining by actively participating in its development and by addressing activities that hinder progress. It is the people who truly build, create, and develop a nation. In the case of a nation like Pakistan, which has faced challenges, it’s important to reform its institutions and address fanaticism to facilitate growth and development.
Circumstances like those in Pakistan can lead to human displacement. In fact, many people in Pakistan themselves do not wish to stay there indefinitely. This is why the children of wealthy Army generals and politicians often choose to settle in cities like Dubai, London, and New York due to the ongoing violence and instability in the rule of law.
As seen in other conflict-ridden countries, people tend to migrate, and this can contribute to the downfall of a nation, as it often involves the emigration of rich, intellectual, and professional individuals who find it easier to adapt to life abroad.

No doubt, Pakistan is at a crucial stage and could potentially become a failed state soon due to several concerning symptoms. These include the immense power held by the Army, the historical instability in the tenure of Prime Ministers who rarely complete their full term, a declining export sector, the exile of former Prime Ministers, and lastly, allegations of providing support and sanctuary for terrorism. These factors may ultimately lead to repercussions for Pakistan.
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