Policy In Pakistan Research Articles

Does Peer Matters? How Peer Influence Firm Payout Policies: Evidence from Pakistan

Payout decisions are receiving more interest from an investor’s point of view. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of peer payout policies on a firm payout policy in Pakistan. This study employs an instrumental variable technique to overcome the endogeneity issue, which is based on peers' idiosyncratic equity shocks. The peers' payout policies have a causal link with a firm payout policy. The effect of peer pressure on firm payout is more evident in companies that compete in a more competitive market and have a good information environment. The firms that are similar in size or resource, especially young and small firms, are more responsive to their industry peers. This study provides channels for managers or policymakers to become more optimistic about formulating the payout policy to attract investors' attention and to compete more fiercely in the market.

Spatial data infrastructure as the means to assemble geographic information necessary for effective agricultural policies in Pakistan

Geospatial information is used to regularly estimate agricultural production for improving food security and economic indicators. Particularly, such estimates are vital for agriculture-based economies like Pakistan. However, poorly managed spatial information causes inaccurate agricultural estimates. Consequently, public policies such as agriculture policies often remain unsustainable to secure enough food and to uplift the rural economy. Against this backdrop, the main objective of this paper is to identify types of spatial datasets, categorize them based on relative importance, and propose a framework to seamlessly disseminate those datasets to agricultural policy-makers in Pakistan. To do so, first of all, the literature is reviewed and a preliminary list of data is prepared. Then we make use of the Delphi survey to prepare the final list of the data. The data are also categorized into most important, very important, and important datasets. The results of the study revealed that the four most important spatial datasets include; hydrological, land use, agricultural census, and meteorological data. The datasets in the category of very important include six datasets; cadaster, crops, soil, pest and disease, natural hazards, and climate change data. The three datasets; remote sensing, research, and agroecological zones data fall under the category of important spatial datasets. Through implementing SDI, the identified data can be made available in one place to find and access to inform policies, the paper concludes.

Unravelling Structural Underdevelopment: Is Governance Quality the Key?

Structural underdevelopment remains a critical economic challenge globally. Despite significant advancements, many countries and regions continue to face developmental hurdles due to historical and systemic factors. Among the myriad of factors, the quality of governance has garnered extensive focus for its role in economic outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between governance quality and economic performance of the countries, guided by institutional theory. Employing data from 197 countries over 1996 to 2022, sourced from the World Bank and the World Governance Indicators, we applied fixed effects and random effects. In addition, the Hausman test was applied in order to initiate the choice between fixed and random effect models. Furthermore, the data was also analysed through descriptive statistics and quantile regression for detailed revelations. Initial findings indicated considerable disparities in governance quality and GDP per capita among income groups. The beta coefficients from our regression analysis elucidated the significance of governance on economic outcomes. Specifically, Voice and Accountability implied a non-positive relation with GDP per capita, whereas Regulatory Quality and Rule of Law exhibited significant positive impact. Stronger positive relationships were evident in the random effects model, reinforcing the connection between governance improvements and economic growth. This research aimed to inform public policy in Pakistan and similar contexts, highlighting how governance quality can affect macro-economic outcomes.

A Document Analysis of Community Learning Centers in Australia: Development of A Model for Pakistan

Purpose: This research explores the emerging role of Community Learning Centers as a vehicle of change in Australia, as a best practice model. This study was a part of research thesis for the development of a model of community learning center in Pakistan. Design/Methodology/Approach: Furthermore, this study was qualitative and based on document review. For this purpose, World Bank WBI Evaluation process was followed to conclude the findings. In this research, ten reports and official documents were retrieved from 1st October 2023 to 31st January 2024. Moreover, priori framework was used for thematic analysis. Findings: The major themes were: background, organization, program implementation, impact and challenges. The findings elaborated the legislative support, policy safeguards and quality measures of AQF and ASQA for 2500 registered training organizations of community learning in all eight states and territories. It includes public and not-for-profit facilities with aim of personal enrichment, adult basic education, accredited and non-accredited vocational education. These facilities were providing seamless transition from non-formal education to formal education as well as increasing employability and productivity of remote, rural and high equity groups. Implications/Originality/Value: This insight will provide guidelines for policy, structure and implementation in Pakistan in the long run.

Analysis of China’s Interests in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Policy in Pakistan

Analysis of China’s Interests in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Policy in Pakistan

Analyzing the Pivotal Role of Mass Media in Shaping Economic Policies and Perceptions in Pakistan

The impact of mass media on society is undeniable. Its effective influence on reporting an issue in hand can make or break the story. Free media is not an extravagance. It is the foundation of impartial development in society. Media can monitor government actions and so serve as a check on public policy. Similarly, corruption can be exposed by the media. It provides a forum for a range of viewpoints on reform and governance and aids in fostering a consensus among the populace in favour of change. These media improve the efficiency of markets. This study examines the role of mass media in Pakistan's economic development. To meet the aim of the study, this research uses the interview method. The findings of the study suggest that the media has the power to play its part in handling Pakistan's economic crisis with objective and responsible coverage. However, corporate media in Pakistan is lacking in representing actual issues or possible reasons for economic decline in the country. There is a need for more responsible reporting by mass media in Pakistan.

REVISITING THE PAKISTAN’S FOREIGN POLICY WITH SHIFT IN ECONOMIC AND TRADING INTERESTS: A GEOPOLITICAL SCENARIO

Pakistan, a country in the South Asian region, is located at the pivot of global trading routes. However, it has remained a security state with threat perception constantly driving its foreign policy. Multiple causes can be associated with the security-driven course of foreign policy and numerous consequences can be derived from such a course of foreign policy. The main aim of this explanatory study is to revisit the foreign policy of Pakistan to shift its economic and trade interests from security state to welfare state. The dynamics of international relations are changing from security-led alliances to economic interdependence. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) provides Pakistan with a significant opportunity to realize its geo-economic and geopolitical strength and revenue potential. Through a foreign policy driven by economics and trade interests to neighboring countries and the regions Pakistan’s not only become a welfare state but also a Great Power. In a nutshell, Pakistan has the potential to become another Germany which evolved from a security state to a welfare state.

Shift from Traditional to Contemporary Political Patterns: Knowing the Youth Perspectives on Political Participation

Youth participation in politics can be an effective way to relieve traditional patterns of political practices in a country like Pakistan. The significant participation of youth has changed the traditional political patterns and has given a new direction in the country. This study examined the youth’s political participation in the democratic practices between two provinces such as Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa within the time frame of the 2013 and 2018 General National elections of Pakistan. The study used the leading theory of the Public Sphere, which indicates that the public sphere is an integral part of democracy. It is a social space in which citizens can engage in political activities pertinent to their public interests. Additionally, the theoretical perspective states that democratic citizens are expected to participate in political affairs under some interests. The research method of this study is qualitative in nature, and the data have been gathered through interviews to support the exploration. This method allows the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of the issue. The research has introduced a new concept of political participation, which is “Youth Inn.” It indicates that the youth are involved in improving the political discourse to participate in activities and it has changed the traditional ways of politics. It is important to mention here that, in the traditional ways of politics, youth is supposed to follow the directions from elders to decide whom to vote for and support in politics; a selection choice is based on candidate language, culture, ethnicity, sect and caste as the main factors. By resisting the traditional pattern of politics, this change has enhanced the youth’s dynamic role in contributing to the political, social, and various aspects of daily life in the society. They have a unique character, which is relevant to support and contribute to the country’s political structure. Furthermore, the inclusion of youth can serve as an insight for political parties to consider them as the central theme in the party policy of Pakistan.

Migration processes and their management in South Asian countries on the example of India, Bangladesh and Pakistan

South Asia is a subregion of the world characterized by high migration mobility of the population. The number of emigrants from this region is more than 43 million people, and the number of immigrants is almost 14 million people. Most of them occur in the country’s three largest subregions by population: India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The purpose of the study is to study the management of migration processes in South Asia. For this purpose, the following tasks were solved: territorial analysis of the direction of migration processes in the largest states of South Asia; studying the features of the regulatory framework in the field of migration policy in the region; analysis of approaches and methods for managing migration processes in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The directions of migration processes have been studied through territorial analysis: in the context of emigration and immigration. The author’s maps were compiled based on current migration data. The regulatory framework related to the implementation of migration policies in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan is analyzed. The features of the approaches and methods that are used in each of the three countries in relation to the regulation of migration processes both within South Asia and beyond its borders are identified. The following territorial specificity of migration processes in South Asia can be noted: the subregion is more a donor of international migrants (more than 43 million people) than a recipient (almost 14 million people); emigration is growing most rapidly in India, while in Bangladesh and Pakistan it is more regulated by the state and used as a factor in socio-economic development; Immigration processes are completely different in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. India is characterized by a concentration of international flows, especially from neighboring countries, while Bangladesh and Pakistan are becoming new homes for refugees from Myanmar and Afghanistan, respectively. Migration processes in the countries of South Asia are characterized by intensive and multidirectional nature. Larger numbers of emigrants come from other subregions of the world, while immigration processes affect nearby countries. If we talk about intraregional migration processes, then India is the country that receives the largest number of immigrants from neighboring South Asian countries. Migration policy is an important part of the dynamic development of any modern state; currently India, Bangladesh and Pakistan are making efforts to formalize and institutionalize this process.

Cyber Law and Cyber Security Policies in Pakistan: A Comparative Study with USA, Canada and Australia

This study evaluates cyber-law and security policies in Pakistan, the USA, Canada, and Australia, exploring how each country's geopolitical and socioeconomic context influences its cyber-defense and lawful measures against cyber threats. It compares their policies to find out best practices and gaps, aiming to guide the creation of stronger, more adaptable cyber-policies. The research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive legal frameworks to protect against emerging cyber threats and the vital role of international collaboration in enhancing global cyber resilience.

ИНДИЯ В ВОЕННОЙ ПРОПАГАНДЕ ПАКИСТАНА: ФОРМИРОВАНИЕ ОБРАЗА ВРАГА

The relations between Pakistan and India have always been hostile. The disagreements between them had a significant impact on the formation of the images of these countries. Pakistani leaders’ perception of India is an example of the enemy image concept. The constant attribution to India of hostile intentions towards Pakistan is the evidence of it. In addition, the religious factor that was basic for the creation of Pakistan, contributed to the division of Muslims and Hindus into “friends” and “foes” and, as a result, added to the opposition between Pakistanis and Indians in the main. The generals who had ruled Pakistan directly for almost 30 years contributed to the creation of the enemy image of India. General Muhammad Ayub Khan was the first to start using the idea of an “aggressive neighbor” in order to unite the Pakistanis. The journals of the Pakistan army, as well as the political autobiographies of the military leaders, indicate that the development of the enemy image of the neighboring state was gradual: the generations of Pakistani officers perceived India differently. However, the tendency to demonize India can be seen as growing within every generation. The image of the neighboring country has a direct impact on the policy of Pakistan towards that country.

Examination of factors associated with the temporal stability assessment of crash severity by using generalised linear model-A case study.

Road crashes are a major public safety concern in Pakistan. Prior studies in Pakistan investigated the impact of different factors on road crashes but did not consider the temporal stability of crash data. This means that the recommendations based on these studies are not fully effective, as the impact of certain factors may change over time. To address this gap in the literature, this study aims to identify the factors contributing to crash severity in road crashes and examine how their impact varies over time. In this comprehensive study, we utilized Generalised Linear Model (GLM) on the crash data between the years 2013 to 2017, encompassing a total sample of 802 road crashes occurred on the N-5 road section in Pakistan, a 429-kilometer stretch connecting two big cities of Pakistan, i.e., Peshawar and Lahore. The purpose of the GLM was to quantify the temporal stability of the factors contributing crash severity in each year from 2013 to 2017. Within this dataset, 60% (n = 471) were fatal crashes, while the remaining 40% (n = 321) were non-fatal. The results revealed that the factors including the day of the week, the location of the crashes, weather conditions, causes of the crashes, and the types of vehicles involved, exhibited the temporal instability over time. In summary, our study provides in-depth insights aimed at reducing crash severity and potentially aiding in the development of effective crash mitigation policies in Pakistan and other nations having similar road safety problems. This research holds great promise in exploring the dynamic safety implications of emerging transportation technologies, particularly in the context of the widespread adoption of connected and autonomous vehicles.

The role of nursing leadership in shaping a uniform national health policy in Pakistan

The role of nursing leadership in shaping a uniform national health policy in Pakistan

The regulatory landscape of genetically engineered crops in Pakistan

AbstractGenome editing technology has become part and parcel of biotechnological approach to understand the genetic basis of different biological processes in an organism and for its application in different fields. The basic need of world food production demands a highly variable population of plants with maximum diversity of agronomic traits of interest. Genome editing is unique in the sense that it provides a direct approach to generate targeted variability. The worldwide availability of genome‐edited crop varieties in the global market is approaching, whereas the decision to deal with genome‐edited (GE) crops differently from genetically transformed crop varieties is under discussion all around the world. GE may add allochthonous or autochthonous sequences into the genome much like traditional transgenesis or cisgenesis. Considering this fact, the United States declared genome‐edited crops as conventional. Many countries such as Japan, UK, China, and Brazil have already legislated their GE products and their products are near to get entry to the market. In Pakistan, academic and research‐based scientific institutions have been working on genome‐edited crops by using CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) Cas technology. As being a signatory of the Cartagena protocol, every case of GM (Genetically modified) or GE (Genetically Engineered) should be passed through the Technical Advisory Committee which will be decided on case‐to‐case bases depending upon its nature of random or targeted mutation. Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan Act, Seed amendment act, and PBR (The Plant Breeders' Rights Act) are the major constitutional acts employed and working for the regulations of GM alongside GE crops. Now, discussions of scientists, academicians and officials from regulatory body are in process for the design of GE crop commercialization policy in Pakistan. The CRISPR‐Cas9 system is now the most in‐demand piece of technology and has become an indispensable component of research and development in the field of life sciences.

Resurgence and Response: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Strategies amidst Rising Terrorism Threats

The current review paper critically examines the effectiveness of Pakistan's current counter-terrorism policies in the context of the resurgence of terrorism. This paper is based on a systematic review of the relevant themes and addresses the successes, challenges, and complexity entailed in Pakistan's counter-terrorism measures. The prolonged military campaigns have been instrumental in breaking the backbone of the terrorist group, which has led to a significant decline in the number of events and deaths. Nevertheless, there are still many questions related to the viability of these achievements. Some of the critical challenges include long-lasting stability, reconstruction of regions in conflict, re-emergence of threats from extremists, etc. A significant criticism of Pakistan's counter-terrorism strategy lies in its selectivity when it comes to handling specific militant groups. In addition, the paper also points out the socio-political and economic dynamics that allow for acts of terrorism. These factors are political instability, socio-economic gaps, and regional and international repercussions. It also discusses profound internal security lacunas, human rights issues and financial challenges – the case of Pakistan being put on the Financial Action Task Force's 'Grey list' is raised. The paper concludes that although the counter-terrorism policies in Pakistan have achieved significant successes, adopting a comprehensive strategy to balance security interests and socio-economic development should be blended with human rights considerations. Addressing both external and internal threats is required for proper accountability of the terrorism menace to build lasting peace. Keywords: Terrorism, Resurgence of terrorism, Counter-terrorism policy, Effectiveness, Pakistan

Firm Performance: An Analysis of Financial Policy and Audit Quality in Pakistan

Purpose: Having effective and well-structured financial policies is essential for a company's success. These policies provide the foundation for measuring and analyzing an organization's performance through a robust financial management system. This study introduces a novel element, namely, audit quality, to enhance our understanding of how financial policies impact a firm's performance. The primary objective of this research is to delve deeper into whether audit quality plays a moderating role in the relationship between financial policies and a firm's performance.
 Design/Methodology/Approach: Discretionary accruals were calculated using a regression model, and descriptive analysis was employed to analyze the data.
 Findings: The results of the study reveal that the connection between free cash flow, agency costs, and a firm's performance is significantly influenced by audit quality. This research particularly offers valuable insights into the manufacturing sector, where performance is of paramount importance.
 Implications: By considering the interplay of financial policy, audit quality, and firm performance, businesses and policymakers can make more informed decisions that contribute to the overall prosperity of the Pakistani corporate sector.

The Unseen Effects: Assessing Zia's Socio-Economic Policies in Pakistan

Most of Pakistani society is segregated by ethnicity and driven by sectarian warfare. The problem harms society economically, politically, and socially. Pakistan is plagued by religious extremism. The issue has become the toughest. Pakistani Islam was deeply ingrained, but power politics, radical militarization, and political use of Islam fostered its militant expression. Zia-ul-Haq radicalized Pakistani society to build his dictatorial dictatorship. This study investigates the multiple repercussions of Zia ul Haq's socio-economic and political developments in Pakistan, focusing on Islamization. Nizam-i-Mustafa, Shariah legislation, and the Federal Shariah Court's role in reconciling Pakistan's diverse populace are examined in the study. The paper explores how these measures affect women, ethnic groups, and the judiciary. Zia's economic initiatives, including interest-free banking, Zakat, and Ushr Ordinance, are examined for Islamicity and economic impact. The study also explores political effects, highlighting public discontent in sectarian violence-affected areas. It also investigates how extremism claims have affected Pakistan's global standing. The study illuminates how religion and politics affected Pakistan's socio-political climate during Zia ul Haq.

Critical Analysis of Dowry Culture Through the Lens of Dowry-related Laws and Policies in Pakistan

Dowry, a stark reality, still haunts the larger part of Pakistani society. Whenever a marriage takes place, the burden to provide dowry falls upon the shoulders of the bride’s parents. This particular study aims to critically evaluate the laws and policies made by the Pakistani state to curb the menace of dowry culture. The qualitative method with a particular focus on descriptive and explorative analysis was used to explore and describe the intricate issue at hand. For this, various national and international surveys, reports along scholarly articles were thoroughly analyzed to find out the underlying causes and their consequences. Until now, not only limited laws have been enacted to deal with dowry as a criminal offense but also enforcing mechanisms have been absent for the existing laws. The findings of this study implore the adoption of dowry-related laws with efficient rules of business for the sake of effective implementation.

Comparative impact assessment of COVID-19 policy interventions in five South Asian countries using reported and estimated unreported death counts during 2020-2021.

There has been raging discussion and debate around the quality of COVID death data in South Asia. According to WHO, of the 5.5 million reported COVID-19 deaths from 2020-2021, 0.57 million (10%) were contributed by five low and middle income countries (LMIC) countries in the Global South: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal. However, a number of excess death estimates show that the actual death toll from COVID-19 is significantly higher than the reported number of deaths. For example, the IHME and WHO both project around 14.9 million total deaths, of which 4.5-5.5 million were attributed to these five countries in 2020-2021. We focus our gaze on the COVID-19 performance of these five countries where 23.5% of the world population lives in 2020 and 2021, via a counterfactual lens and ask, to what extent the mortality of one LMIC would have been affected if it adopted the pandemic policies of another, similar country? We use a Bayesian semi-mechanistic model developed by Mishra et al. (2021) to compare both the reported and estimated total death tolls by permuting the time-varying reproduction number (Rt) across these countries over a similar time period. Our analysis shows that, in the first half of 2021, mortality in India in terms of reported deaths could have been reduced to 96 and 102 deaths per million compared to actual 170 reported deaths per million had it adopted the policies of Nepal and Pakistan respectively. In terms of total deaths, India could have averted 481 and 466 deaths per million had it adopted the policies of Bangladesh and Pakistan. On the other hand, India had a lower number of reported COVID-19 deaths per million (48 deaths per million) and a lower estimated total deaths per million (80 deaths per million) in the second half of 2021, and LMICs other than Pakistan would have lower reported mortality had they followed India's strategy. The gap between the reported and estimated total deaths highlights the varying level and extent of under-reporting of deaths across the subcontinent, and that model estimates are contingent on accuracy of the death data. Our analysis shows the importance of timely public health intervention and vaccines for lowering mortality and the need for better coverage infrastructure for the death registration system in LMICs.

ROLE OF ISLAM IN THE FOREIGN POLICY OF PAKISTAN – FROM PAST TO PRESENT

This research study focuses on understanding the role of Islam in the foreign policy of Pakistan. Pakistan’s statecraft has been influenced by Islam. Hence, the influence of Islam was also felt within Pakistan’s foreign policy. In order to understand Islam’s role in Pakistan’s foreign policy three interviews were conducted with experts on the subject. Afterward, a thematic analysis was conducted from the interviews. Firstly, this study explores the influence of Islam on Pakistan’s foreign policy. It is argued that Pakistan’s initial economic needs compelled Pakistan to use Islam in its foreign policy. It is also argued that despite the existential threat from its arch-rival India, Pakistan was not kept away from having a pragmatic foreign policy by Islam’s role in its foreign policy. Secondly, theocratic perception’s impact on Pakistan’s foreign policy is also analyzed. It is analyzed how theocratic perception within Pakistan led Pakistan to face the curse of extremism. Military-Mullah nexus and the use of non-state actors as a foreign policy tool are also discussed. Thirdly, Pakistan’s relations with Islamic countries, mainly Saudi Arabia and Iran are also explored within this research. It is argued that Pakistan has warily tried to maintain balance in its relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran. Moreover, Pakistan’s joining of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) and its role in the Yemen conflict are also discussed. It is concluded that Pakistan remained under the influence of hybrid theocracy which consequently influenced its foreign policy. However, quite contrary to common belief, Pakistan has successfully maintained a pragmatic foreign policy.