Islamabad, A recent End of Year Survey conducted by the Gallup International Association (GIA) has revealed that more people in Pakistan are optimistic (41%) than pessimistic (36%) about the country’s future. This survey, which has been a tradition since 1978, involved 42 countries, including Pakistan, and reached a sample size of 40,428 individuals.
According to Gallup Pakistan, the survey provided several key findings about the national sentiment in Pakistan. Notably, while optimism about the country’s future prevails, there has been a 19% decrease in hope for the future compared to last year. Additionally, when compared to regional countries participating in the survey, including India, Afghanistan, and Iran, Pakistan ranks second in terms of optimism for the upcoming year.
These findings offer a glimpse into the current mood of the Pakistani populace, reflecting a complex mix of hope and apprehension about the future. The survey highlights the nuanced perspectives of Pakistanis amidst various national and regional challenges.
Islamabad, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of human rights in the country, emphasizing the need for urgent action in the new year.
According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, a key issue is the manipulation of the electoral landscape, with one political party being targeted for systematic dismemberment. Despite condemning violence, HRCP noted the state’s disproportionate and unlawful response, including arrests, enforced disappearances, pressure on party leaders, and rejection of candidates’ nomination papers. Other political parties have also faced similar tactics to varying extents, casting doubt on the fairness and credibility of the upcoming elections.
HRCP also addressed the infringement of rights of vulnerable groups, particularly religious minorities. The past year saw the destruction of Christian and Ahmadiyya worship sites, including over 30 churches in Jaranwala in August 2023, and increased misuse of blasphemy laws. The Christian community’s demand for a judicial inquiry into the Jaranwala incident and fair compensation for victims has been supported by HRCP, along with a call for implementing the 2014 Supreme Court judgment regarding religious minorities’ rights.
The commission expressed concern over the mass expulsion of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers, violating international law and disregarding their safety upon return to Afghanistan.
The state of law and order, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was another area of concern. HRCP urged for military restraint, empowering law enforcement agencies with necessary training and resources, and caution against opaque negotiations with militants that occurred last year. The commission also emphasized preserving the achievements of the former FATA’s merger and mainstreaming.
Lastly, HRCP criticized the state’s clampdown on dissent, including actions against Baloch women protesting enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The commission called for an end to repressive tactics and expressed solidarity with the protestors, demanding the state produce those missing in court.
HRCP stressed that these issues must be addressed by an elected government that operates transparently, independently, and is committed to protecting all citizens’ and residents’ rights.