A ‘Crisis’ consists of two key components – one symbolizing danger and the other opportunity. Plato is credited with coining the phrase, “Necessity is the mother of invention,” and often, crises act as the catalyst for rapid innovation in technology, policy, and procedures. The actions taken to survive and eventually resolve a crisis can fortify an individual, organization or country, making them more resilient for future challenges.
Global crises, particularly extended, large-scale wars, have the power to disrupt established orders and challenge long-held norms, paving the way for new systems, structures, and values to emerge. Without such upheaval in existing systems and practices, leaders and populations tend to resist significant changes and the relinquishing of their sovereignty to new entities or rules.
Crisis tend to bring out the best in individuals. Amidst a crisis, those possessing the right skill sets and talents, even if they aren’t the designated leaders or top performers, often rise to the occasion. This dynamic foster stronger teamwork and unity within the entire team or group.
Large-scale crises that impact various interests and stakeholders have a tendency to bring diverse partners together – both allies and rivals – in order to address the crisis. If these relationships are nurtured, they can be leveraged for cooperation in other areas.
Currently, Pakistan is grappling with a severe socio-economic and political crisis of significant duration. While the country’s economy functions, it primarily benefits the elite. Sustained, rapid, and equitable economic growth remains elusive due to policy distortions that primarily serve the civilian and military elite.
Pakistan’s economic crisis, aside from wreaking havoc on national economies, has spurred political movements demanding greater democracy and accountability. Surprisingly, in response to the economic downturn, the government has yet to consider implementing austerity measures. However, during such a crisis, embracing austerity policies could potentially transform adversity into an opportunity for the country.
For instance, in Pakistan, there are opulent residences allocated to bureaucrats and other government officials, along with a substantial number of servants attending to their needs. This represents an extreme scenario. In the midst of socio-economic and political turmoil, the government could consider repurposing these costly residences into more modest flats or houses that match the officials’ actual requirements. Furthermore, the excessive number of servants could be trimmed down to just one or two per official.
Government vehicles used for personal matters by officials should be strictly prohibited. When a government vehicle with a ‘The Green Number Plate’ is on the road, it should signify official business only.
Free perks such as meals, accommodation, fuel, utilities, Hajj/Umrah trips, unofficial air tickets, and VIP protocols must be discontinued, especially during times of crisis. These privileges often sow discord in society and can be detrimental to the economy. Such lavish services for bureaucrats and others hardly contribute to overall improvement.
During times of crisis, the government should take robust measures to combat corruption and bribery. Corruption has deeply entrenched Pakistan in its current deteriorating state, yet there has been inadequate action to address this menace. Those in influential positions at the highest levels are often complicit in corruption, diverting funds from the poor to international banks for their personal gain. It’s crucial to move beyond mere media sensationalism and effect real change.
Despite Pakistan’s taxation efforts, even the smallest items are taxed, yet the country consistently relies on debt to sustain its operations. Numerous projects meant to generate tax revenue daily end up in financial losses. This highlights the mismanagement of resources and the presence of corrupt political elites and bureaucracy.
Pakistan’s perpetual dependence on IMF and other international donors has deterred financially stable nations from investing in the country. Pakistan needs to recognize this pattern and strive for self-sufficiency.
While Pakistan possesses abundant natural resources, their utilization remains inadequate, perpetuating the need for external aid and loans. The country’s large population could be an asset for development, but the inability to harness talent effectively has turned it into a burden. Competent professionals, including scientists, engineers, doctors, and teachers, often seek opportunities abroad due to their undervaluation in Pakistan. This alarming trend should be acknowledged by policymakers to prevent the country from becoming barren in terms of talent.
Political instability and institutional conflicts persistently plague Pakistan, reflecting a lack of sincerity and a focus on personal interests over the nation’s well-being. Addressing these concerns is crucial for Pakistan’s progress and stability.
Inflation has reached its zenith, and the middle class in Pakistan is on the brink of extinction, yet it seems that this concern is not receiving the attention it deserves. The dire economic situation has forced people into desperate circumstances, leading to instances of desperation and even suicide as opportunities for earning a livelihood have dwindled. Utility prices, including electricity, fuel, and gas, have reached unprecedented levels, raising questions about Pakistan’s ability to compete in global production markets. In contrast, countries like India and Bangladesh boast extensive industries that offer products at competitive prices due to their lower production costs. Pakistan, however, faces an opposite scenario where high production costs threaten its ability to export anything.
Most of the institutions and departments in Pakistan have become white elephant and there is a need to privatize them. Privatization should be based on some certain criterion through which the ultimate benefit would be given to state and the public. Many people use to disagree with the privatization but it has become essential in such crisis.
It is imperative to reassess current policies and transform these crises into opportunities for growth. In such a challenging environment, the government must make resolute decisions to mitigate these crises through austerity measures and by aligning the political elite and bureaucracy with the standards observed by civilized nations. By taking such steps, the crisis can potentially be turned into an advantage for Pakistan.
