ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has regressed in sustainable development index from 129 in 2023 to 137 in 2024. The noticeable regression of 8pc point just in one year is highly alarming.

This was stated by CEO of Awaz CDS-Pakistan Ziaur Rehman while speaking at the National People’s Assembly held in connection with the International Day of Democracy and 11th anniversary of Agenda 2030 for Social Transformation and Summit of the Future.

“Pakistan spends less than 6.9pc of its total yearly budget on overall public sector development. It should spend more than 25pc of its total yearly budget if we are serious in achieving our commitments under SDGs,” he said.

Munazza Gillani, Director Pakistan and Middle East, Sightsavers, said, “Inclusivity and diversity remain at the forefront of every initiative we undertake because these issues impact everyone. Pakistan’s economy loses an estimated $3.2 billion due to the lack of engagement with people with disabilities, who make up 10-15pc of our population, according to WHO. It’s time we join hands. The civil society plays a pivotal role in driving this change.”

The first panel at the assembly addressed issues such as equity and inclusion, disability rights, child rights and social protection, featuring contributions from social leaders like Dr Atif Sheikh (STEP), Syed Ishtiaqul Hassan Gilani, Mohammad Asim Zafar and Sameena Nazir.

Hassan Gillani underscored the importance of enforcing child labour laws, adding, “There is no clear definition of a child’s age in Pakistan as in many other countries, and it is crucial to define this age bracket uniformly in all our laws and policies. We must avoid engaging children below the legal age in labour or the market. Clear laws and policies are needed to effectively regulate child labour in the country.”

Sameena Nazir emphasised the timely nature of the assembly, adding, “This assembly has been organised at just the right time, and I sincerely hope it reaches the people who can support the change.

“I’m glad to see that we are putting our efforts in the right direction, addressing critical issues that affect marginalised communities, and working collectively toward a more inclusive and equitable future.”

Published in Dawn, September 17th, 2024