A National Compact for 2025: Pakistan's Path Forward

As Pakistan faces multiple challenges in 2025, including political instability, economic setback, and human development, a national compact is necessary to address these issues. The government, military, and citizens must work together to achieve a stable and prosperous future.

The country's political stability relies on the adoption of consensual democracy, ensuring power is shared inclusively, not concentrated in the hands of the majority. This approach will promote accountability, representation, and peaceful transfer of power. The military's role in governance must be rebalanced according to democratic principles and public expectations. By doing so, the country can minimize the risk of military intervention and ensure civilian supremacy. Additionally, a comprehensive economic reform plan is required, focusing on areas such as widening the tax base, diversifying exports, and privatizing loss-making state-owned enterprises. This will stimulate growth, foster competition, and create jobs. Investing in human development, including education and healthcare, is crucial for the country's long-term progress. The implementation of these reforms will also improve the institutional capacity of the civil service, enabling it to handle future challenges effectively.

Another significant challenge is defeating militancy and terrorism, which requires a fresh multipronged action plan. The plan should address various dimensions of the threat, including terror financing, improved coordination between intelligence and law-enforcement agencies, and a strategy to secure support from local communities. A leadership that prioritizes national interests and mobilizes a broad coalition to address the challenges will be essential to achieving a stable and prosperous Pakistan. It needs to have a clear vision for the country's future and be willing to make concessions to build a consensus.

By implementing a national compact and addressing these critical issues, Pakistan can create a better future for its citizens and secure its place in the region. The outcome will depend on the ability of the government, military, and citizens to work together and prioritize the country's needs above personal interests.