PAKISTAN is the third-worst country for law and order, according to the World Justice Project’s 2024 Rule of Law Index. Ranking 140th out of 142 countries, only Mali and Nigeria score lower, reflecting our ongoing struggle to control crime, manage unrest, and reduce violence. Daily incidents of street crime, kidnappings, and terrorism in major cities underscore the need for stronger law enforcement and public safety measures. The report highlights other serious gaps as well. Pakistan ranks 120th in corruption, a factor driven by widespread misuse of power. Despite efforts by NAB and the FIA in high-profile cases, the perception remains that these bodies act selectively and out of political expediency. For genuine progress, these agencies must be empowered to act independently, holding all public offices accountable. The introduction of whistleblower protection legislation is a positive step, yet more needs to be done to ensure citizens feel safe reporting corruption. Pakistan also ranks poorly (106th) in ‘Open Government’ with restricted access to information and limited public involvement. While the Right to Information Act was introduced to foster transparency, accessing government data and decisions is an opaque process. Effective enforcement of this act, alongside better civic engagement channels, would empower citizens and increase trust, especially in rural areas where government outreach is weak.

Pakistan’s 125th ranking in ‘Fundamental Rights’ highlights ongoing challenges in freedom of expression and assembly. Crackdowns on the media is concerning. Legal safeguards that protect journalists and civil society groups from state repression are essential to uphold these rights. ‘Weak Regulatory Enforcement’ (127th) is another concern. Inconsistencies in enforcing basic regulations — from consumer rights to environmental laws — allow private interests to bypass rules without accountability. Addressing these gaps requires strengthening regulatory bodies and ensuring they are free from political — and ‘apolitical’ — interference. Pakistan’s ‘Civil Justice’ system ranks 128th, struggling with accessibility, graft and delays, especially in lower courts. Streamlining case management and promoting alternative dispute resolution could relieve pressure on the judiciary and improve timely justice. It is clear Pakistan is in dire need of major and genuine institutional reform. The path forward demands political will and unity. If there ever was a purpose for all quarters to be on the ‘same page’, it is this.

Published in Dawn, October 28th, 2024