Joseph Wilson: The economic and governance challenges facing Pakistan

Pakistan has achieved some economic success – mainly in agriculture and industry – despite recurring political instability since the country’s independence in 1947.

Yet millions of Pakistanis still live below the poverty line. Inadequate basic infrastructure –notably electricity supply- and low levels of social development continue to constrain economic growth. Pakistan ranks among the worst performers on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index and is beset with a range of governance challenges.

In an IDRC public lecture, respected regulatory law expert, and member of the Competition Commission of Pakistan, Joseph Wilson provided a brief overview of the history that has shaped Pakistan’s economic environment. He then examined factors that continue to inhibit economic growth, including corruption, unsustainable budget deficits, population growth, decreased foreign direct investment, and the deteriorating security situation.

Published: 28 Jun 2010

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