In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Azad Kashmir, like many regions, finds itself at a crossroads. A recent BBC report has shed light on the devastating impact of internet disruptions, highlighting that just one hour of internet outage costs businesses approximately one million dollars. A significant portion of this loss comes from the youth population, whose livelihoods are increasingly tied to the digital economy. The report further revealed that Pakistan ranks 96th out of 111 countries in terms of mobile internet speed, a ranking that paints a bleak picture for a region striving to keep up with global technological advancements.
This is not just a matter of statistics—it is a reflection of the broader struggles faced by the youth and businesses in Azad Kashmir. The digital divide, slow internet speeds, and frequent service disruptions are hampering the growth of IT industries. In fact, around 4,000 IT companies have moved their operations to Dubai this year, a stark indication of the challenges within Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. Experts in the field of IT export contend that Pakistan has a $15 billion market waiting to be tapped, but only if the internet connectivity issues are resolved.
The rapid advancement of technology, from Artificial Intelligence to Artificial General Intelligence and even Artificial Super Intelligence, has the world on the brink of a new era. However, in Azad Kashmir, these advancements are still a distant dream. While the world is preparing for the future with new laws and budgets for AI, the region continues to grapple with outdated infrastructure that hampers its ability to compete globally.
Furthermore, the impact of Pakistan’s economic conditions, policies, and the changing laws in Gulf countries have directly affected the livelihoods of people in Azad Kashmir. Every year, between 15,000 to 20,000 graduates from universities in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan enter the job market, seeking employment opportunities. Sadly, there is no concrete plan from the government to accommodate them. The absence of proper job creation strategies, combined with the deteriorating environmental conditions and the rising unemployment rate, is leading to a growing sense of disillusionment among the youth.
The year 2024 marked a turning point, with widespread protests across Azad Kashmir. Young people, alongside traders and other segments of society, took to the streets to voice their frustrations with government policies. The participation of youth in these protests is a clear indication of the weakening social contract between the state and its citizens. The government’s failure to address the employment crisis and environmental degradation has left many young people feeling abandoned, with no future prospects in sight.
The environmental crisis is another critical issue that cannot be overlooked. From deforestation to the dwindling agricultural resources, Azad Kashmir is facing the brunt of climate change. The population has grown exponentially since the region’s partition, and yet the local infrastructure has not kept pace. There are no significant local production sources, and the region has become heavily reliant on external consumption. The consequences are dire—according to a global survey, nearly 60% of children in the region suffer from malnutrition, and the unemployment rate continues to rise.
The rapid growth of the consumer society in Azad Kashmir has come at the expense of its social and economic fabric. A lack of proper planning and infrastructure, combined with rampant corruption and misuse of government resources, has created a chasm between the elite and the common man. The public education system, rather than fostering innovation, is churning out graduates who are ill-prepared for the modern job market. At the same time, administrative units based on tribal and regional affiliations have only served to exacerbate the region’s challenges. The result is a bureaucratic system that is both inefficient and burdensome to the common citizen.
As we look at the youth’s involvement in the protests, it becomes clear that their frustration stems not just from a lack of job opportunities but from a broader sense of injustice. In a region where the elite enjoy modern amenities while the common people struggle to make ends meet, questions must be raised. The gap between the privileged and the disadvantaged is widening, and the youth, who are increasingly aware of this disparity, are expressing their anger through demonstrations and activism.
The path forward for Azad Kashmir lies in addressing these pressing issues head-on. The digital infrastructure must be upgraded to provide the youth with the tools they need to succeed in the modern economy. Moreover, job creation strategies must be developed, not just for the sake of economic growth but for the future stability of the region. The government must act quickly to reverse the environmental damage, safeguard natural resources, and ensure that the future generations inherit a livable, sustainable region.
While the challenges are formidable, they are not insurmountable. However, they require political will, strategic planning, and most importantly, the involvement of the youth, who are the driving force behind any meaningful change. The government must heed their concerns, invest in their potential, and create an environment where they can thrive, rather than just survive.
The future of Azad Kashmir depends on the decisions made today, and it is time for the authorities to take action before it is too late.
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