Few countries today are facing as many crippling crises as Pakistan. Some are identical to the problems that sparked revolutions and uprisings in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and other countries in the Middle East and North Africa: government corruption, unemployment, poverty and a floundering economy. But Pakistan has not caught the Middle Easts revolution fever.
Here are four reasons why:
1. Pakistan had its own version of a revolution in 2007. Thats when a largely middle-class movement, fed up with former President Pervez Musharrafs military rule and failure to crack down on extremists, led an uprising against the regime. A civilian government came into power after the 2008 parliamentary elections that were widely viewed as free and fair. A few months later, Musharraf resigned as president and left the country.
2. Pakistanis have ample opportunities to let off steam and voice dissent through a remarkably free and vibrant press and political system. In Pakistan, trashing politicians is a national sport that is played out daily.
3. Pakistani culture is made up of at least six different ethnicities: Punjabi, Pashtun, Sindhi, Baluch, Muhajir and Kashmiri. Each has its own distinct culture and language. This diverse mix of ethnicities makes it difficult for Pakistanis to unite behind a single cause.
4. Pakistanis have many perceived enemies, so its often hard to decide whom to rise up against. Having too many foes reduces the intensity and focus of dissent, which are often prerequisites for an uprising.
Theres no sign of a revolution coming to Pakistan, but this is still a country in a crucial region that desperately needs help and reform to address the most basic needs of its people.
Change could come with the democratic mechanisms that are already in place there, but that will take a commitment from all institutions including the powerful military along with support from the international community and lots of patience.
NADIA RAFIQ
Faisalabad
