Poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment are some of the most pressing social issues in Pakistan. These issues are closely related and have direct impacts on the country’s economy. In addition, they are also connected to violence of religion, and child labour. Identifying and solving these issues is essential for a prosperous and stable society.
Violence of religion
Violence of religion is a pervasive problem in Pakistan. It is a combination of ethnic and political factors, rooted in Pakistan’s history and explicit religious identity. Today, sectarian violence is a major problem, with many religious minority groups committing violent sectarian attacks. These attacks often result in multiple deaths, and the Pakistani government has done little to protect religious freedom.
The violent extremists have no qualms about committing violent acts in the name of religion. In Pakistan, the government has been appeasing extremists and allowing them to continue their bloody crusade. But this appeasement policy has not prevented the violence, and in fact, has made the situation even worse. Violence of religion is also affecting the rights of women and minorities.
In 2017, Labaik activists occupied a major road between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. During the protest, over 3,000 people blocked the road, and they attacked police and property. It became a major crisis, and the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was forced to sack the law minister.
In recent months, Pakistan’s Islamists have also been committing acts of violence against Shias and Ahmadis. Recently, the Islamist militant group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for attacks against Shia and Ahmadiya communities in Lahore, Quetta, and Hangu.
While the violence of religion against minorities is widespread throughout Pakistan, the most frequent targets are the Shi’a, Ahmadis, Christians, and Hindus. The majority of religious minorities work in agriculture and domestic work, which places them at risk for violence.
Child labour
Child labour is a social issue that is prevalent in Pakistan. This problem is cause by various cultural and social factors. They include high child population, family size, divorce and familial conflicts. This type of work also causes many psychological and physical injuries. Further, child labour is often associated with sexual exploitation.
Child labour in Pakistan is an issue that cuts across sectors and is largely rural in nature. Although Pakistan has ratified the core conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO), child labor is still prevalent in many areas. The ruling class of Pakistan has opposed workplace reform. In addition, child workers are also frequently victims of kidnapping and industrial accidents.
The government of Pakistan is taking steps to combat child labor. However, police corruption is hindering the progress of child labour reform. In addition to taking bribes from suspected perpetrators, police officers often neglect to carry out proper criminal investigations. This has a profound impact on the lives of children.
Social protection for children is crucial in tackling poverty and eradicating child labour. It is a human right and a powerful policy tool. If provided to every child, it could prevent families from turning to child labour in times of crisis. However, the coverage for children is even lower than for adults. As a result, almost three-fourths of children do not have social protection.
