Losing credibility

Published January 14, 2025

PAKISTAN has experienced devastating internet restrictions in the last more than two months. With fundamental functio-nality restricted, social media platforms are hardly accessible. There are worries that Pakistan might be moving towards digital isolation similar to that of North Korea because virtual private networks (VPNs) have been targeted and a firewall regime has been implemented.

Every hour of downtime costs more than $1 million, according to the Pakistan Software House Association (P@SHA), which estimates that recent internet interruptions have cost $300 million. The information technology (IT) industry, which formerly grew at a rate of 30 per cent per year, is currently facing difficulties. As tech companies consider moving out, freelancers deal with shaky connections, and foreign clients reconsider alliances. These obstacles must be eliminated if Pakistan is to compete for a $1 trillion economy and reach its $60 billion IT export goal.

A slow and interrupted internet has become the new standard, impeding business, education and overall economic growth. While the government talks of a digital economy, its policies contradict progress. In order to advance, it must encourage candid communication, ensure that social media companies are held fully responsible through appropriate regulation, and enable people to differ- entiate between false information and the truth. It is also crucial to rebuild confidence in independent media.

A firewall system is actually an obstacle in the way of Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. These limitations are stifling innovation and economic potential in a society rushing towards 5G.

The government must move quickly to restore dependable internet connectivity.

Moin Ahmed Awan
Kandhkot

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2025

Opinion

Editorial

Court in crisis
Updated 30 Jan, 2025

Court in crisis

There is increasing frustration over complications created by the law, especially as it has begun interfering with independent functioning of judiciary.
Death blow
30 Jan, 2025

Death blow

JOURNALISTS took to the streets in protest; human rights groups warned against the dangers; and digital rights...
Enhanced inclusivity
30 Jan, 2025

Enhanced inclusivity

TWO fresh initiatives involving new features in people’s CNICs should help enhance inclusivity for special ...
PTI no-show
Updated 29 Jan, 2025

PTI no-show

There is growing impression that an entire country is being held hostage by the egos of a few powerful individuals.
A second Nakba?
29 Jan, 2025

A second Nakba?

WHILE candidate Trump was able to get away with making outrageous statements on the campaign trail, what President...
Cricket spin
29 Jan, 2025

Cricket spin

PAKISTAN seemed to have found the blueprint for Test success at home: raging turners that had brought three wins in ...