Death and destruction in Gaza
aMonths of negotiations have failed to end the war, and there is little expectation that the fresh round of talks, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, will succeed. While Hamas has said it…
Going ‘glocal’
ASPIRING for an education system that matches global standards is not only about curriculum design, competencies and skills. It is also about classroom management, behaviour, student grooming, values and ethics.…
Syria on my mind
IN the mid-2000s, my sister was living in Damascus and I planned a visit to her and then a trip to Lebanon, together. But I could not secure a visa…
Patronage and power
In Pakistan, if you have ever experienced the inconvenience and general discomfort of dealing with government officials (as have I numerous times), then this is something that you, by and…
It’s all about political stability
Perturbed by the ongoing political uncertainty, the trade and industry leaders met and expressed concerns that the rising political uncertainty, deteriorating security situation and high cost of doing business are forcing…
Invest, but not for profit
The government and other key actors are grappling with conflicting objectives in addressing Pakistan’s economic challenges. On the one hand, they aspire to attract investments and stimulate economic activity; on…
Kurram carnage
VIOLENCE in Kurram has spiked in frequency and magnitude recently. Fresh clashes erupted on Nov 21, when passenger vehicles were ambushed near Mandori. Forty-four persons lost their lives, including women and children. In revenge…
At the crossroads
THE girl never existed. The rape never happened. But thousands marched. Even the HRCP couldn’t find ‘forensic evidence and credible testimonies’ to back the allegations, but the damage had already…
Economy has been nursed to some semblance of health
There is some semblance of macroeconomic stability in Pakistan as inflation decreases, interest rates fall, and the currency stabilizes, primarily due to domestic and global high base effects. However, achieving…
Towards a sound fiscal policy
There are four essential elements of a sound fiscal regime. The first is to grow the income base from which tax revenue is derived. This is achieved by a well-aligned…
