WEF article backs creation of new provinces in Pakistan

Please enable JavaScript for the best SAMAA TV experience.

Note: For enhanced search features, please enable JavaScript.

'Creating 16 to 30 administrative units could improve governance'

The debate over creating new provinces in Pakistan has gained international attention, with an article published on the World Economic Forum’s website arguing that administrative reforms are needed to meet the needs of the country’s growing population.

The article stated that Pakistan’s population has increased more than sevenfold since 1951 to around 260 million, while the country still has only four provinces. It also noted that 28 per cent of children aged between five and 16 are out of school.

According to the article, the concentration of key powers in provincial capitals makes it harder to resolve public grievances. Smaller, empowered administrative units could bring the government closer to the people, improve public services and strengthen accountability among elected representatives.

The article presented a possible framework for creating 16 provincial units by dividing each of the four existing provinces into four administrative units. Under this proposal, each unit would have an average population of around 15 million.

Other proposals discussed in the article include expanding the number of provincial units to between 23 and 25, or creating more than 30 administrative units.

The article pointed to weak provincial tax revenues as evidence of the need for wide-ranging financial reforms. It argues that stronger local institutions are essential to tackle floods and other climate-related risks effectively.

Citing international examples, the article notes that Nigeria increased the number of states from three to 36, while Indonesia expanded its number of provinces from 27 to 38. Kenya replaced eight provinces with 47 elected county governments and changed the way public funds were distributed.

The article argued that Pakistan could also benefit from transferring greater powers to lower levels of government, allowing local representatives to address public needs more effectively.

In international market, gold surges to $4,195 per ounce

Saudi Arabia says several injured in two attacks on Riyadh airport, flight operations return to normal

Information Ministry says PAF not deployed against Houthis, urges int'l media to avoid speculation