Pakistan has been going through a tough political phase. In recent times, the country has witnessed increasing restrictions on freedom of speech, media, dissent, and opposition parties. Many people, both inside and outside the country, are now asking: Is democracy in Pakistan in peril?
How People in Pakistan See It
Within Pakistan, opinions are divided. Many young people, students, journalists, and human rights activists are concerned. They believe the country is drifting away from democratic values like free speech and fair elections. This concern intensified after the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who still commands a significant support base. His supporters claim that the government and the military are working together to keep him out of power.
Protests have been met with police action, arrests, and internet shutdowns. Social media is heavily monitored, and individuals who criticize the government or military can face serious consequences. Some television channels have been taken off the air, and journalists have been attacked or silenced. Laws are being used to block websites and penalize people for speaking out.
However, not everyone sees this as a negative development. Some believe strong action is necessary to stop "anti-national" forces or prevent chaos. These individuals often support the military’s dominant role in the country.
What the World Thinks
Globally, human rights organizations have raised red flags. Groups like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have published reports highlighting growing repression in Pakistan. They are urging the Pakistani government to respect human rights and allow free expression.
However, most foreign governments remain silent. Countries like the United States, the UK, and others have issued only mild statements. Although they claim to support democracy, their relationships with Pakistan are largely based on security and trade. For instance, the U.S. considers Pakistan important for stability in Afghanistan and counterterrorism efforts.
China, Pakistan’s closest ally, never comments on human rights issues. Instead, China focuses on initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which benefits both countries. Russia also remains quiet.
India’s Position
India, as Pakistan’s neighbor and rival, has largely stayed silent. Indian officials have occasionally criticized the human rights situation in Pakistan, but not strongly. Some Indian media outlets report on these issues to highlight problems in Pakistan, but India faces its own challenges and is wary of inviting similar criticism in return.
What This Says About Pakistan’s Democracy
Democracy is not just about holding elections. It is also about allowing people to speak freely, question authority, and make choices without fear. In Pakistan’s case, although elections are held, real power often lies with the military. This undermines civilian rule.
Judges are sometimes seen as acting under pressure. Journalists and media organizations are not truly free. Many fear that the system is turning into what experts call a “hybrid democracy” — one that appears democratic on the surface but is tightly controlled from within.
This situation can be dangerous in the long run. When people lose faith in democracy, it can lead to frustration, protests, or even violence. It also creates space for more extreme political forces to rise.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan’s internal crackdown reveals that its democracy is under threat. While some support these actions in the name of "order," many others see this as a serious setback. Global powers seem reluctant to intervene, and neighbors like India are watching from the sidelines. For now, it is up to the people of Pakistan — journalists, lawyers, students, and ordinary citizens — to stand up for democratic values. If they don’t, the country may slide even further away from the freedoms its people have long struggled for.
Vandita Kheluth is a trainee journalist at Cult Current. The views expressed in the article are
her ownand do not necessarily reflect the official stance of Cult Current