Annual Dinner Debate
The Economic Cost of Overlooking Population Dynamics
At the 25th Annual Conference Dinner of the Population Association of Pakistan (PAP), leading economists and policymakers explored the critical relationship between population dynamics and economic development. The discussion highlighted how rapid population growth, inadequate investment in human capital, and governance inefficiencies continue to hinder Pakistan’s progress.
Key takeaways from the conversation included:
Human Capital as the Foundation of Growth
Investing in women’s education and workforce participation is essential for sustainable economic growth. Comparative insights from India and Bangladesh emphasized how prioritizing human capital leads to improved socio-economic outcomes.
Policy and Governance Challenges
Pakistan’s resource allocation formula under the NFC Award limits incentives for provinces to invest in population management. Experts stressed the need for targeted economic activity in underdeveloped regions to curb migration-driven urban conflicts
Urbanization and Family Planning
With 70% of urban population growth linked to high fertility rates, expanding family planning interventions in urban and peri-urban areas was identified as a crucial strategy for sustainable urban development.
The Role of Local Governance
Decentralization and stronger sub-regional governance structures were proposed as solutions to ensure equitable resource distribution and targeted support for underserved communities.
The discussion reinforced the urgency of prioritizing human capital, investing in women’s empowerment, strengthening governance, and expanding access to family planning services. Addressing these challenges is key to unlocking Pakistan’s economic potential and ensuring a more sustainable future.
