1. Democracy in Pakistan:
Evaluating the Threats and Prospects in
21st Century
Muhammad Ismail
Lecturer, Department of Politics and
International Studies
Karakoram International University, Gilgit
2. Overview of Democracy in Pakistan
Independence
Pakistan became an independent state in
1947, after a long and difficult struggle for
freedom.
First Democratic
Government
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was the first
democratically elected Prime
Minister of Pakistan in 1973.
Martial Law, 1958
The country has witnessed multiple military
takeovers and periods of martial law, the most
recent being General Pervez Musharraf's regime.
3. Threats to Democracy
Nepotism
Family and dynastic politics has long been a challenge to democracy and merit-
based systems in Pakistan.
Corruption
Institutional corruption continues to be a major threat to democracy in Pakistan,
with politicians, bureaucrats, and even the judiciary being implicated.
Military Interventions
The military has a long tradition of intervening in politics in Pakistan and undermining
democratic processes.
Terrorism
Violence and terrorism pose a serious threat to democracy, with extremist groups
resorting to violence to achieve their political aims.
4. Threats to Democracy
Political Instability
Pakistan has experienced frequent changes in government due to political instability,
which hampers the consolidation of democratic institutions and the ability to address
long-term challenges. This instability is often linked to corruption and weak governance.
.
Judiciary system of Pakistan
The judiciary system of Pakistan : higher judiciary has become a bigger threat to
democracy since 1947
Economic Challenges
Economic issues, including poverty, inflation, and a lack of equitable development,
can strain the democratic system. When citizens do not see improvements in their
living standards, it can lead to disillusionment with democracy.
5. Prospects for Democracy in 21st century
Economic
Development
Pakistan's robust economic
growth will strengthen
democratic institutions and
promote democratization.
Regional Cooperation
Increased diplomatic and
strategic cooperation in the
region may lead to stability
and a stronger democracy in
Pakistan.
Role of Media
A free press can hold
political leaders accountable
and deepen public
discourse, leading to a
healthier democracy.
6. Prospects for Democracy in 21st century
Civil Society and
Media:
A vibrant civil society and a relatively
free media play a crucial role in
safeguarding and promoting
democracy. They can act as a check
on government power and expose
corruption
Youth Engagement
Pakistan has a large and
increasingly politically
active youth population.
Their engagement in
politics and civil society
movements offers hope for
revitalizing and
strengthening democracy
Rule of Law
Strengthening the rule of law,
ensuring an independent
judiciary, and addressing
corruption are essential for
consolidating democracy in
Pakistan
7. Suggestions for Strengthening
Democratic Institutions
Electoral Reforms
Transparent and impartial elections can strengthen democratic institutions and
restore public confidence in the system.
Judicial Reforms
An independent judiciary can check the power of the executive and promote
accountability in the political system.
Military involvement
To stop the military Involvement in Politics of Pakistan , 9158, 1969, 1977,
1999
