Ayesha Saba

For the first time in Pakistan, the Planning Ministry has allowed Pakistani citizens to actively engage in the country's decision-making by establishing a Champions of Reforms (CoR) network, a major step forward towards inclusive, responsive, and transparent governance. “By encouraging public and private sectors to collaborate, the CoR initiative builds a platform for envisioning the future of Pakistan and driving collective progress,” said Dr Adnan Rafique, public policy analyst at the Planning Commission, while talking to WealthPK.

“In Pakistan, most of the population consists of youth. When young people are not given the chance to take part in formal, institutionalised political processes, they feel disempowered because they tend to believe that their voices are not going to be heard,” he pointed out. He also mentioned trust deficit, which prevents the youth from participating in the political process. As a result, the lack of trust generates a vicious cycle that impacts governance and the functioning of institutions, as well as their ability to address economic instability.

“The CoR members ensure responsiveness and transparency by actively engaging with policymakers and providing feedback. By promoting trust and collaboration between citizens and the government, this accountability mechanism strengthens the mutual relationship,” Dr Adnan said. The official said the implementation of this initiative will strengthen relations with citizens, and this is a sound investment for better policymaking and good governance for the country. He said it will allow the government to tap new sources of policy-relevant ideas, information, and resources when making decisions.

“Inclusive political participation is not only a fundamental political and democratic right, but also crucial to building stable and peaceful societies and developing policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations,” he said, adding that it is essential that young people are engaged in formal political processes and have a say in formulating today’s and tomorrow’s politics.

Director General of the International Institute of Islamic Economics (IIIE) at International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) Professor Dr Abdul Rashid told WealthPK that academia can also play a vital role in developing and designing a practical policy. “If academics are genuinely interested in the betterment of society, their research should be aimed at following the issues of their surroundings, society, industry, and the world in general. In this way, they will be able to contribute significantly towards shaping public perceptions, and consequently, reforming policy agendas indirectly,” he emphasised. He said taking serious steps towards full implementation of this process would prove beneficial for Pakistan.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk