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Criterion Quarterly

Governance & Policy

The Sovereign Arbitrage: Why Nations Must Stop Copying Silicon Valley

The Sovereign Arbitrage: Why Nations Must Stop Copying Silicon Valley

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The race to build digital economies has led many countries to replicate outdated models that offer limited long-term value. This article challenges conventional approaches to digital development, arguing that emerging economies should move beyond imitation and focus on creating globally competitive digital platforms capable of generating wealth at scale. Exploring new technological frontiers such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and autonomous systems, it outlines how states can position themselves to capture greater value in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

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Global Framework on Transboundary Waters in the Context of Geography

Global Framework on Transboundary Waters in the Context of Geography

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Transboundary waters connect nations through shared resources, but they also create complex political and environmental challenges. This article explores the evolution of international legal frameworks governing shared rivers, lakes, and aquifers, while highlighting the decisive role of geography, hydrology, and power dynamics in shaping cooperation. Using South Asia and the Indus Basin as key examples, it examines the growing pressures of climate change and argues that effective water governance will require stronger international collaboration, adaptive institutions, and a renewed commitment to equitable resource management.

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Chapter 14: The Militancy Challenge — Development Challenges of Pakistan: Constraints and Choices

Chapter 14: The Militancy Challenge — Development Challenges of Pakistan: Constraints and Choices

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This review of Chapter 14 from Development Challenges of Pakistan unpacks how militancy has deepened development challenges in Pakistan, undermining economic growth, eroding state capacity, and exposing weaknesses in public policy. A sobering look at the cost of conflict on national progress.

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Between Dreams and Realities

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This article explores the gap between dreams and realities in Pakistan’s political landscape. It highlights the governance challenges that hinder the country’s progress and the difficulties in aligning aspirations with practical outcomes. By examining key issues in socio-economic development, the article outlines the need for a clear strategic direction to bridge these gaps and create a more sustainable future for the nation.

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Supreme Court of Pakistan: The Case of Missing Persons

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This article examines the Supreme Court of Pakistan and its role in addressing the case of missing persons, a significant human rights issue. It highlights the legal challenges, the search for justice, and the court’s efforts to hold authorities accountable. The article underscores the importance of legal accountability and the court’s efforts in seeking justice for the families affected by these disappearances.

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The Inequitable Tax Structure

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This article critically examines Pakistan’s inequitable tax structure, which exacerbates economic inequality across the country, emphasizing the need for urgent fiscal reform. It highlights how current taxation policies disproportionately burden lower-income groups while offering loopholes and advantages to the wealthy. The article calls for systemic changes to create a fairer and more balanced fiscal policy in Pakistan that promotes equality and economic justice.

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The Transition to Democracy

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This article examines the complex transition to democracy, focusing on the political systems and governance reforms needed to facilitate a smooth shift from authoritarian rule. It highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise during this critical period of change, emphasizing the importance of establishing strong institutions and public trust in the process of democratic reform.

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War and State Expansion: A Theoretical Framework

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This article explores war and state expansion as interlinked phenomena, examining how conflict has historically contributed to the consolidation of state power and reshaped political systems. It provides a theoretical framework to understand how wars not only influence sovereignty but also drive the expansion of governmental authority, setting the stage for modern political structures.

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A Critical View of the Political Developments in Pakistan

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This article provides a critical analysis of the political developments in Pakistan, focusing on the evolving landscape of governance, democracy, and leadership. It highlights key moments in the nation’s political history, examining the challenges and opportunities that have shaped Pakistan’s governance over the years, and questions the long-term impact of these developments on its democratic institutions.

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Pakistan – Religion, Terrorism and Democracy

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This article explores the complex interplay between religion, terrorism, and democracy in Pakistan. It examines how religious ideologies have influenced governance and contributed to rising terrorism, while also assessing the challenges Pakistan faces in maintaining democratic integrity. The article calls for a balanced approach to governance that can address these intertwined issues.

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Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) – Retrospect and Prospects

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This article examines the past and future of the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), analyzing its role in fostering unity and global influence for the Muslim world. It discusses the organization’s achievements and challenges, highlighting prospects for strengthening its impact on international issues and supporting solidarity among member nations.

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The Parliamentary System in South Asia

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This article explores the parliamentary system as a vital political structure in South Asia, examining how governance under this model shapes the region’s democracy and political landscape. It analyzes both the strengths and challenges of parliamentary governance in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, offering insights into its impact on regional stability and democratic growth.

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FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) at the Crossroads

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This article explores the critical juncture at which FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) finds itself, examining the region’s transition within Pakistan. It discusses the challenges of implementing governance and development efforts after years of marginalization and conflict. The piece highlights the importance of political reforms in integrating FATA into the national framework, providing insights into the opportunities and obstacles the region faces as it seeks stability and growth. With the right policies, FATA has the potential to transform from a troubled zone into a hub of development and progress.

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The Status of Women in Pakistan: A Ray of Hope

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This article examines the status of women in Pakistan, shedding light on both the challenges they face and the progress being made toward gender equality. It highlights key areas of improvement in women’s rights and education, offering a ray of hope for greater empowerment in the future. By analyzing current social, legal, and economic advancements, the piece portrays a nuanced picture of how Pakistan is slowly but steadily advancing toward a more inclusive society for women, despite cultural and systemic barriers.

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The MQM and Identity Politics in Pakistan

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This article examines the rise of the MQM (Muttahida Qaumi Movement) and its significant role in shaping identity politics in Pakistan. It analyzes how the party leveraged ethnic identity to gain political influence, particularly among the Muhajir community, and the long-term implications of this strategy on the country’s political landscape. The article also explores the broader effects of identity politics on national unity, discussing how the MQM’s approach has both empowered certain communities while simultaneously deepening ethnic divisions in Pakistan’s urban centers. Through this lens, the piece provides a critical look at the intersection of politics and ethnic identity in shaping the country’s governance.

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Jinnah’s Worldview and Outlook on World Affairs

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This article explores Jinnah’s worldview and his strategic outlook on world affairs, shedding light on how his vision shaped the foreign policy of Pakistan. It delves into the principles that guided Jinnah’s approach to international relations, focusing on his belief in diplomacy, peaceful coexistence, and Pakistan’s role on the global stage. By examining Jinnah’s stance on pivotal issues, the article offers a detailed understanding of his contributions to shaping Pakistan’s foreign policy and how his ideas continue to influence the country’s international posture today.

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Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges: The Continuing Relevance of the Functional Necessity Theory

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This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the ongoing relevance of diplomatic immunities and privileges through the lens of the functional necessity theory. It emphasizes how these protections are not mere formalities, but crucial elements of international law that allow diplomats to perform their functions without fear of legal or political interference. The article explores how the functional necessity theory ensures that diplomacy can operate effectively, particularly in times of heightened international tensions. With increasing scrutiny on diplomatic conduct in the modern era, the article underscores the importance of preserving these immunities to maintain global diplomatic relations and stability.

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Interview with Justice Khalil-ur-Rahman Ramday

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This insightful interview with Justice Khalil-ur-Rahman Ramday sheds light on the inner workings of Pakistan’s judiciary and its critical role in upholding judicial independence. Justice Ramday discusses the challenges and triumphs faced by the legal system, offering readers an informed perspective on the current state of Pakistan’s judiciary and its future prospects.

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Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s Legacy and the Rebuilding of Pakistan

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This article reflects on Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s enduring legacy and his pivotal role in the rebuilding of Pakistan. It explores how his political leadership and visionary economic reforms set the stage for Pakistan’s development, despite the challenges faced during his tenure. Bhutto’s policies continue to shape the nation’s political and economic landscape, serving as a foundation for both progress and controversy in contemporary Pakistan.

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Governance Reforms in Pakistan

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Pakistan’s governance reforms face significant challenges, as political leadership grapples with policy implementation in a complex environment. Despite efforts to bring about positive change, the reforms have encountered obstacles such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and resistance from vested interests. The article underscores the need for more robust governance structures and effective leadership to navigate these challenges and ensure long-lasting improvements in Pakistan.

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New Government, Old Problems

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Pakistan’s new government faces the same old problems, struggling to implement governance reforms that can address the country’s deep-rooted challenges. Despite fresh leadership, critical issues like economic instability, corruption, and security concerns persist, putting pressure on the new administration to deliver change. The article highlights how the weight of these old problems continues to stifle progress, emphasizing the need for more effective governance and reforms to lead the country toward stability.

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Some Reflections on Islam and Governance

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The article explores the relationship between Islam and governance, emphasizing how Islamic principles can provide a framework for strong political leadership and effective governance. It highlights the governance challenges faced by Muslim-majority nations and the importance of adhering to social justice to create equitable systems of governance rooted in Islamic values.

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Political Uncertainty and Extremist Violence

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The article explores how political uncertainty in Pakistan fuels extremist violence, with weak governance providing a fertile ground for radical ideologies to thrive. It highlights the need for institutional reforms and stronger leadership to counter the growing threat of violence, emphasizing that without stability, efforts to curb extremism remain ineffective.

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Islamic Polity and the Constitutional Process in Pakistan

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This article explores the intricate relationship between Islamic polity and the constitutional process in Pakistan, highlighting the governance challenges that arise from balancing religious principles with legal frameworks. It examines how Pakistan’s unique political landscape shapes its approach to governance and the pursuit of a stable legal system that aligns with Islamic values.

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Inaugural Note

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This inaugural note addresses Pakistan’s critical journey toward socio-political stability, emphasizing the importance of national development amidst economic challenges. With a global perspective, it discusses the urgent need for cohesive strategies that can bridge domestic and international aspirations, setting a hopeful tone for the country’s future.

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