Being
unclear with what kind of state Pakistanis want and have is the main reason for
Pakistan's slow paced development.
At some
point or the other, Pakistan has faced the different types of state theories that
prevail. Bhutto's idea of running Pakistan can be said to be inspired from the
social-democratic state theory.
His government was followed by the nationalisation of large industries and attempts to create equity.
His government was followed by the nationalisation of large industries and attempts to create equity.
During Ayub Khan’s regime, Pakistan could be called
a development state where government intervention was solely for the purpose of
economic development.
Under Zia-ul-Haq’s regime Pakistan could be called
an attempt at a totalitarian state; though arguable.
The point being, however, that Pakistanis are confused
with what kind of state they want. The Pakistani masses are uneducated and have
been vulnerable to leviathans in the history that have left them stranded;
pursuing motives different from those which the Pakistani society wants.
Pakistan should be a liberal state; namely a minimal
state, where the state is unbiased towards anyone’s interests or groups. This is
essential as it would avoid insignificant conflicts and attention could then be
given to matters like education and healthcare.
1 comment:
I really like how you described the different state types that have existed in Pakistan at different points in our history. I agree that a liberal, minimalist state would be great, but getting this idea to stick in the minds of those who run the government is a difficult proposition.
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