From 2000 to 2024, Pakistan, a nation overflowing with potential, has been ensnared in a relentless cycle of crisis. With strategic geopolitical positioning, a young and dynamic population, and abundant natural resources, Pakistan should be a success story. Yet, it finds itself grappling with economic collapse, social disintegration, and political chaos. Why? Why is Pakistan at war with itself?

Pakistan’s geographic location, a strategic goldmine, has become a curse. At the heart of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, Pakistan should be a hub of commerce and culture. Instead, it has become a battleground for geopolitical games. Endless tension with India over Kashmir, entanglement in Afghanistan’s turmoil, and a tumultuous relationship with the United States have transformed this potential advantage into a nightmare. The so-called war on terror has bled the country dry, claiming countless lives and draining economic resources.

Pakistan’s involvement in the Afghan conflict has been particularly devastating. The influx of refugees, the rise of militancy, and the economic toll have severely destabilised the nation. The constant state of conflict has diverted resources away from development and into a seemingly endless war effort. This geopolitical quagmire has not only strained Pakistan’s economy but has also fractured its social fabric, leading to increased violence and insecurity within its borders.

Let’s not mince words—Pakistan’s economy is in shambles. Despite rich natural resources, including coal, gas, and fertile land, the country is crippled by corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of vision. Reliance on foreign aid and crippling loans has led Pakistan into a debt trap from which it seems unable to escape. The industrial sector is hampered by energy shortages, uncompetitive pricing, and erratic policies, while the SME sector, which could be the backbone of the economy, is stifled by bureaucratic red tape and limited access........

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