Pakistan has been ranked among the worst countries globally in terms of law and order, according to the 2024 Rule of Law Index by the World Justice Project. This damning assessment underscores the nation’s persistent struggle with crime, corruption, and a lack of fundamental rights.
The index places Pakistan at a dismal 140th out of 142 countries, surpassed only by Mali and Nigeria. This ranking reflects the country’s alarming levels of street crime, kidnappings, and terrorism, particularly in major urban centers. The absence of effective law enforcement and public safety measures has created a climate of fear and insecurity.
Corruption, a pervasive issue, has further eroded public trust in institutions. Despite efforts by anti-corruption agencies like the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the perception persists that these bodies are often used for political purposes. To truly combat corruption, these agencies must be empowered to operate independently and hold all public officials accountable. Additionally, stronger whistleblower protection laws are needed to encourage citizens to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal.
The lack of transparency and accountability in government is another significant concern. Pakistan’s poor ranking in ‘Open Government’ highlights the challenges in accessing information and participating in public decision-making. The Right to Information Act, while a positive step, is often poorly implemented. To improve government transparency, effective enforcement of this law and increased public engagement are crucial.
The erosion of fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and assembly, is a worrying trend. The government’s crackdown on the media and civil society has stifled dissent and limited public discourse. Strong legal safeguards are necessary to protect journalists and activists from state repression.
Weak regulatory enforcement is another major issue. Inconsistent application of laws and regulations, from consumer protection to environmental standards, allows powerful interests to operate with impunity. Strengthening regulatory bodies and ensuring their independence are essential to address this problem.
The country’s civil justice system is also plagued by inefficiency and corruption. Delays, inaccessibility, and graft in lower courts have led to a backlog of cases and denied justice to many. Streamlining case management and promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms could help alleviate the burden on the judiciary and improve access to justice.
To address these systemic issues, Pakistan requires bold and comprehensive reforms. This will necessitate political will and a united effort from all stakeholders. By strengthening law enforcement, combating corruption, promoting transparency, protecting fundamental rights, and improving the justice system, Pakistan can hope to create a more just and equitable society.
