The Central Superior Services examination has long served as the gateway into Pakistan’s civil bureaucracy. Established when administrative generalists formed the backbone of governance, the system continues to prioritize broad-based general knowledge over technical expertise. Selection involves written examinations, psychological tests, group exercises and interviews, with final service allocation-such as PAS, Police, Foreign Service, Audit, […]
The Price of Political Myopia
Pakistan’s economy is bearing the weight of decades of poor decision-making, fiscal mismanagement, and politically motivated policies. At the heart of this long and painful economic decline lies a recurring pattern: the prioritisation of political gains over national interest, the persistent postponement of difficult but necessary reforms, and a chronic disregard for economic value when […]
The Pakistani-Turkish Relationship
In an era defined by geopolitical flux, with traditional alliances fraying and new power blocs emerging, the relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye stands as a beacon of resilience and ambition. Since 2010, the two nations – bound by historical camaraderie, shared heritage and a mutual yearning for regional influence – have transformed their ties into […]
Germany’s Elections
The 2025 German federal election was staged with all the intensity and anticipation worthy of the world’s 4th largest economy. Voters flocked to polling stations against the backdrop of vigorous debate and divergent visions for Germany’s future. With a voter turnout of 82.5 percent, the results are transformative, not just for Germany but for Europe. […]
Aleppo’s Frontlines
Syria’s civil war remains a convoluted mesh of local and international interests, power struggles, and a shifting strategic landscape. Over the weekend, the conflict witnessed a renewed surge in violence. Recent developments have rekindled international attention, particularly focusing on rebel forces capturing Aleppo and Hama. Aleppo has been a critical focal point in the civil […]
Shaping The Global Economy and International Affairs
Countries face a plethora of historic challenges and uncertainties which will influence the global economic landscape, reshape world order and impact economic growth. These forces offer both opportunities and risks for policymakers and business investors alike. Understanding them is critical for navigating today’s complex political and economic landscape. The first key issue is the massive […]
Reforming The Civil Service Examination
Every February, thousands of aspiring candidates take the Central Superior Services examinations administered by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC). In a week, they sit for a series of tough exams, often two per day. Of the 22,000 plus candidates who applied in 2020, barely 2.11 percent cleared the entire process. Candidates select 11 to […]
Saudi-Iranian Rapprochement
Pakistan has had long-standing relationships with Saudi Arabia and Iran, two key regional players that have been at loggerheads with each other. Pakistan has historically close ties with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has frequently helped Pakistan wither difficult economic hardships, has invested in Pakistan’s economy and is home to millions of Pakistani expatriates who rely […]
Harnessing Pakistan’s Wind Power Potential
Since 2008, Pakistan has been grappling with an acute energy crisis that has hindered economic growth, stalled development, prevented industrialization, reduced productivity and increased unemployment. During the past decades, the country’s power sector has been facing significant challenges, primarily due to the shortage of electric supply, resulting in load shedding and power outages. Electric demand […]
Brain Drain
Over the last two years, 1.5 million Pakistanis have emigrated in search of better prospects. The country faces the spectre of highly skilled individuals leaving for greener pastures – a brain drain on steroids. The loss of talented professionals, scientists and intellectuals have significant repercussions for the country’s socio-economic growth. Many developing countries struggle with […]