Global Economic Inequality: A Threat to Stability and Security

Dr. Muhammad Qadeer; Dr. Syedah Sadia Kazmi; Azhar Shahbaz Khan

Dr. Muhammad Qadeer Criminology department, University of the Punjab, Lahore
Dr. Syedah Sadia Kazmi Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations (DPSIR), School of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSSH), University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore
Azhar Shahbaz Khan Assistant Professor, Department of International Relations, Fatima Jinnah Women University, The Mall, Rawalpindi

Keywords: Economic disparity, democratic stability in Pakistan, socioeconomic inequities, political frameworks, National Security, National Security Policy

Abstract

The article investigates the complex link between economic inequality and democratic stability in Pakistan, tracking its evolution from 1947 to 2023. It employs qualitative research technique and logical reasoning to examine the historical, political, and socioeconomic factors that have influenced Pakistan's economic policies, political institutions, and societal structure. The study demonstrates the early emphasis on an agricultural economy, followed by industrialisation, and the difficulties encountered in balancing economic growth and resource distribution. It also emphasises the socioeconomic consequences of policies that prioritise certain industries, resulting in wealth concentration among elites and prolonged rural poverty. The research also looks at key historical events including political revolutions, nationalisation programs, and foreign interventions, and how these affect economic trajectories and democratic institutions. The findings point to the association between economic disparities and political dissatisfaction highlights the problems that democratic government faces as a result of persistent economic inequality, institutional shortcomings, and policy inconsistencies. The report promotes inclusive economic policies, social welfare programs, and transparent government to reduce economic inequities and improve democratic stability. Socioeconomic imbalances might jeopardise national security. They may potentially jeopardise a state's existence. To alleviate socioeconomic inequities, states must adopt a holistic security policy. Pakistan is likewise dealing with socioeconomic inequities created by a variety of internal and external forces. The National Security Policy (NSP) 2022-2026 acknowledges these factors and proposes a holistic security paradigm for the country. This study uses the Copenhagen School's Comprehensive Security Approach to better understand the relationship between socioeconomic inequality and Pakistan's national security. It seeks to illustrate how socioeconomic gaps impact Pakistan's national security and what steps might be taken to alleviate them.