THE FUTURE OF PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY: CONFRONTING STRUCTURAL DEFICITS AND EMERGING THREATS

This paper critically examines the evolving concept of national security through the lens of Pakistan’s unique socio-political and economic challenges. It explores how economic fragility, demographic pressures, and climate-induced resource scarcity collectively threaten Pakistan’s stability and security. The analysis highlights the interdependence between economic sustainability and national security, emphasising how fiscal weaknesses and informal economic dominance undermine state capacity. The paper concludes with a set of comprehensive reform recommendations, advocating for constitutional continuity, fiscal reform, resource management, and human capital development. Ultimately, it argues that Pakistan’s national security requires a holistic, integrated approach that prioritises institutional strengthening and socio-economic stability alongside traditional defense considerations to navigate an increasingly complex threat environment.

 

Keywords: National security, non-traditional threats, economic sustainability, informal economy, demographic pressures, climate change, water scarcity, Pakistan policy reform