IN times when the internet serves as a vital economic resource for the large young population of the country, frequent internet disruptions and overt censorship in Pakistan are troubling the burgeoning tech sector, particularly in cities like Karachi. The consequences faced by the vast community of freelancers and remote workers are devastating. When firewalls and restrictions throttle bandwidth, free-lancers lose critical contracts and face irreparable damage to their professional reputation and financial stability.

Through digital platforms, the youth contribute significantly to the national economy. Why does the government not prioritise infrastructure stability and establish clear legal frameworks? Rather than blanket censorship, the authorities should implement measures in collaboration with the tech industry, ensuring that state security policies also safeguard the livelihoods of digital professionals.

Manahil Habib
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2026