Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Justice for Dr Aafia
The case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui raises serious concerns about human rights and justice for both Pakistan and the international community. A Pakistani neuroscientist, she disappeared in March 2003, along with her three young children. Initially labelled a suspected al-Qaeda operative by the US government, no formal charges were ever filed against her. Her family believes she was abducted by intelligence agencies from Pakistan and the US, a claim both countries deny.
In 2008, Dr. Siddiqui was arrested by US forces in Afghanistan amid unsubstantiated allegations and reportedly suffered torture during her detention and was sentenced to 86 years. Many human rights organizations have documented her hardships and prolonged detainment. There are growing calls for a re-examination of her case that upholds her rights, reflecting a strong desire for justice in Pakistan and beyond.
FATIMA KHALID
Rawalpindi
Preserving cultural heritage
Pakistan is blessed with a rich cultural heritage, from the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro to the architectural marvels of the Mughal era. However, these sites are at risk due to environmental challenges, encroachment, inadequate funding and lack of public awareness. The heritage sites are part of our identity and could also be powerful assets for tourism, yet their neglect may lead to irreversible damage or even total loss.
Preserving these cultural treasures requires a comprehensive approach. The government should increase funding for restoration and conservation and partner with international heritage organizations for technical and financial assistance. The use of technology, like 3D mapping and digital archiving, can help preserve these sites digitally, making them accessible to the global community and future generations.
Furthermore, local communities should be involved in conservation efforts, ensuring they benefit from responsible tourism that respects and funds heritage preservation. By investing in our cultural heritage, Pakistan can protect its unique identity, promote tourism, and provide future generations with a sense of pride in their history.
NAMEERA HASAN
Karachi
Unemployment crisis
Ongoing issue of unemployment has impacted many individuals, families, and communities. Unemployment rates remain high in various regions, affecting both skilled and unskilled workers, recent graduates, and seasoned professionals. The effects of prolonged joblessness are far-reaching, contributing to economic instability, mental health struggles, and increased pressure on social support systems.
Many individuals face significant obstacles in securing stable employment, including a mismatch between skills and available jobs, economic downturns, and technological advancements that continue to reshape industries. Without sufficient opportunities for employment, individuals are often left with limited means to support themselves and their families, leading to social and financial difficulties.
To address this issue, it is essential to implement comprehensive strategies that not only create job opportunities but also provide resources and training for individuals to adapt to evolving job market requirements. Increased investment in vocational training, education, and skill development programs can play a vital role in helping people acquire the qualifications necessary to meet current market demands. Furthermore, fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses can lead to job creation and economic growth.
In conclusion, the issue of unemployment requires urgent attention and coordinated efforts from both governmental and private sectors. By working together to address this critical issue, we can help achieve quality of life for countless individuals.
SARFRAZ ISHAIQ
Karachi
Corruption
Corruption is spreading at an alarming rate, engulfing Pakistan’s fabric and devastating a significant portion of our population. This scourge perpetuates suffering and injustice, prioritising self-interest over public welfare. Today, corrupt officials and businessmen foster an environment conducive to criminal activities, claiming innocent lives and undermining societal stability. Corrupt individuals accumulate wealth through illegal means, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation.
The consequences of corruption are far-reaching, leading to economic stagnation, social inequality, political instability and human rights violations. The poor are disenfranchised, and the vulnerable are driven to despair. Tragically, many individuals, including students, are driven to desperation, even taking their own lives due to corruption’s crushing burden. It is imperative that immediate action is taken to address this crisis. To combat corruption, I urge to strengthen anti-corruption laws, ensure accountability and transparency, protect whistleblowers and educate the public on corruption’s consequences. Pakistan’s future depends on eradicating this plague.
SUMAIRA BALOCH
Absor, Balochistan
Intellectual growth
In the era of 90s, reading was a common pastime, a habit that nurtured minds and broadened horizons. People immersed themselves in books, connecting with diverse perspectives and slowing down to appreciate the nuances of language and thought. However, advent of digital age has ushered in a culture of instant gratification. The patience required for reading, a slow-burn process that yields long-term benefits, has been replaced by quick dopamine hits of so-cial media. This shift in behaviour is alarming, as it prioritises short-term pleasures over intel-lectual growth.
A recent book fair in Lahore serves as a stark reminder of this trend. While the event was intended to promote literature and culture, it was overshadowed by the popularity of food stalls.
The stark contrast between the meagre book sales and the overwhelming demand for food highlights a generation more concerned with physical sustenance than mental nourish-ment. Social media, while a powerful tool, can also be a double-edged sword.
It can foster connections, facilitate communication, and disseminate information. Yet, excessive use can lead to addiction, superficiality, and a distorted sense of reality. Constant bombardment of such content can hinder critical thinking and independent thought. The future of a country depends on quality of its leaders, and we must strive to nurture minds that are capable of critical thinking, problem-solving and empathy.
ARISHA IRSHAD ALI
Karachi
