PAKISTAN has experienced devastating internet restrictions in the last more than two months. With fundamental functio-nality restricted, social media platforms are hardly accessible. There are worries that Pakistan might be moving towards digital isolation similar to that of North Korea because virtual private networks (VPNs) have been targeted and a firewall regime has been implemented.

Every hour of downtime costs more than $1 million, according to the Pakistan Software House Association (P@SHA), which estimates that recent internet interruptions have cost $300 million. The information technology (IT) industry, which formerly grew at a rate of 30 per cent per year, is currently facing difficulties. As tech companies consider moving out, freelancers deal with shaky connections, and foreign clients reconsider alliances. These obstacles must be eliminated if Pakistan is to compete for a $1 trillion economy and reach its $60 billion IT export goal.

A slow and interrupted internet has become the new standard, impeding business, education and overall economic growth. While the government talks of a digital economy, its policies contradict progress. In order to advance, it must encourage candid communication, ensure that social media companies are held fully responsible through appropriate regulation, and enable people to differ- entiate between false information and the truth. It is also crucial to rebuild confidence in independent media.

A firewall system is actually an obstacle in the way of Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. These limitations are stifling innovation and economic potential in a society rushing towards 5G.

The government must move quickly to restore dependable internet connectivity.

Moin Ahmed Awan
Kandhkot

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2025