The divide is typically rural-urban, with increasing segregation along those lines in many parts of the world. Typical urban centres have something to do with growth, innovation, and availability of services, which is all but rare in rural areas, which mostly tend to be poverty-stricken places with fewer people and little access to proper healthcare. […]
Op-Ed
Assessing Trump’s Tariffs
Bangladesh found a breathing space after U.S. President Donald Trump had granted a 90-day exemption from the recently imposed 37% tariff on Bangladeshi exports to the United States, as part of a broader initiative temporarily easing trade restrictions for multiple countries. This brings to the fore a longstanding challenge that Bangladesh can no longer afford […]
Israel: The Last Bastion of Imperialism
No matter how brutal Macbeth was, he wasn’t devoid of conscience. Despite murdering king Ducan in cold blood, he confessed that “only Vaulting ambition, which” o’erleapt itself/ And fell “on the other,” made him commit the hideous crime. While confessing the gravity of his criminal act that left an indelible stain on his hands, he […]
TTP vs Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen: A New Power Struggle in the Militant Landscape
Opinion (Jawad Yousafzai) – After the formation of Ittihad-ul-Mujahidee, the fighters associated with Tahreek Taliban Pakistan have started criticism over the new development. It seems that they are not happy with the new development, writing several articles about the new alliance, narrating it against Islamic values. One unofficial article refers to the development as “Fasaad […]
Activists, not Academics or Journalists
In recent years, the boundaries between different public roles in Pakistan have grown increasingly blurred. One of the most troubling trends is the confusion between activists, academics, and journalists. While each has a vital role in society, their responsibilities and ethical standards differ-and this difference matters, perhaps more now than ever before. An academic is […]
Tariff Truce-But Not for China
In a surprising turn of events, former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 90-day suspension of sweeping new tariffs on dozens of countries, excluding China. The move, which the White House framed as strategic rather than reactive, followed by just one week, the administration’s imposition of historic import duties that roiled global markets and […]
Najmuddin Shaikh: A Diplomat Par Excellence.
This is how I have described Ambassador Najmuddin Shaikh in my Reminiscences published in 2017. “Mr. Shaharyar Khan retired in April 1994 after a long and brilliant career in the Foreign Service of Pakistan. He was replaced as Foreign Secretary by Ambassador Najmuddin Shaikh. Mustachioed, with thick hair, always dressed in his make-to-measure pinstripe three […]
A Man Without Conscience
Former President Arif Alvi is currently in the United States, where he has made several statements regarding Pakistan’s political situation. In a recent interview with CNN, he described the current government in Pakistan as “fascist” and alleged that it operates with the support of unseen forces. He claimed that Imran Khan has been imprisoned for […]
The Stage Reclaimed
Not so many years ago, theatres in Punjab were renowned for their rich narrative and courage with words that spoke truth, however painful. Now, these klieg lights flash intermittently, haunting aficionados with their faint shadows. Once a euphoric chorus ringing through filled halls, the humour now seems interrupted by the jarring shuffle of disquiet, the […]
Overseas Convention
In a determined step towards welcoming its extended global family, Pakistan is hosting the first-ever Overseas Pakistanis Convention 2025: a historic move marking an authentic acknowledgement of the diaspora’s long-standing contribution and genuine dedication to strengthening ties. Much more than a social event, it is expected to shape up to be a physical bridge being […]