Pakistan is facing a deepening poverty crisis, driven by economic instability, ineffective government policies, and widening inequality, according to a report in the UK-based Asian Lite. Rising inflation and sluggish economic growth have intensified vulnerabilities, limiting income opportunities and forcing households to rely on debt or livelihood-based coping strategies.
Key Findings:
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Poverty Levels Rising: Nearly 45% of Pakistan’s population lives below the poverty line, according to a recent World Bank report.
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Impact on Children: Child labour is increasing as families struggle financially, trapping children in intergenerational poverty. Economic hardship, rather than legal enforcement, is the primary driver.
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Inequality: While large sections of the population are deprived of basic services, a small elite enjoys privileges. Experts say decades of weak governance, political opportunism, and poor leadership have worsened the situation.
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Policy Failures: Pakistan’s failure to create jobs and stimulate economic growth means poverty is unlikely to decline. Experts say the country needs at least 5–6% economic growth to significantly reduce poverty. IMF stabilization programs alone have not led to both growth and poverty reduction.
Expert Opinions:
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Miftah Ismail (Former Finance Minister): Hunger and poverty have grown since 2021, leaving one-quarter of the population unsure of where their next meal will come from.
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Mansoor Ahmad (Author/Columnist): Poverty is the main reason children are forced into work.
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Saira Samo (Educationist): Pakistan’s crisis reflects decades of failed leadership prioritizing personal or partisan interests over national welfare.
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Rashid Amjad (Economics Professor): Without generating jobs and sustaining growth, poverty reduction remains unlikely.
The report emphasizes that persistent economic instability, weak policies, and political dysfunction continue to deepen inequality and restrict access to basic needs, particularly affecting women and children.
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