Policy Pitfalls

Concerning the SouthAsia Magazine cover story of March 2025, I want to add a few points. In actual fact, Pakistan’s foreign policy has also been reactive rather than proactive, often responding to crises rather than shaping strategic initiatives. This short-term thinking has made it challenging to build a coherent global image or establish strong economic partnerships. Furthermore, Pakistan has struggled to leverage its geopolitical position effectively. While it is critical between South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, inconsistent policies and political instability have deterred foreign investment and economic growth. To address these flaws, Pakistan needs a more balanced, strategic, and forward-looking foreign policy prioritizing regional stability, economic diplomacy, and global engagement.

Tasneem Humayun,
Peshawar, Pakistan.

Rise of Donald Trump

The rise of Donald Trump is proving detrimental, particularly to the media landscape. Trump’s demonization of the media as the “enemy of the people” mirrors tactics used by autocrats to suppress dissent. His control over the Republican Party has turned it into a vehicle for his authoritarian ambitions, with lawmakers prioritizing loyalty over constitutional duty. If Trump continues to operate like this, his unchecked ambitions, disregard for democratic institutions, and consolidation of authority could push America further towards authoritarian rule, posing a grave threat to the country’s democratic foundations.

Suhail Abbasi,
Swat, Pakistan.

Gender Equality Misconceptions

The presence of women in leadership does not automatically equate to gender equality. First, some women leaders may rise to power within patriarchal systems without challenging them. If they operate within male-dominated institutions without advocating for gender-inclusive policies, their leadership does little to advance equality. For example, conservative female politicians or corporate executives may oppose policies like paid maternity leave or equal pay, reinforcing existing inequalities. While women leaders can be powerful symbols of progress, their success does not always translate into systemic change for women. Gender equality requires structural reforms, not just representation at the top.

Dr. Sabahat Ali Jafri,
Lahore, Pakistan.

Unrest in Kerala

The Indian state of Kerala is witnessing widespread protests against the Central Government’s plan to initiate offshore mining along its coast. The state’s government, opposition parties, environmentalists, and fishing communities have united in opposition, citing severe threats to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of approximately 1.1 million fishermen across 222 fishing villages. The controversy intensified following amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act of 2002, which opened offshore mining to private entities. Despite the Union Ministry of Mines assurances that marine protected areas have been excluded from mining zones, Kerala continues to express strong reservations, advocating for protecting its coastal communities and ecosystems. Fishermen fear a significant decline in fish stocks, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Environmentalists warn that the removal of seabed deposits could have irreversible ecological consequences. Such extensive extraction could undermine natural coastal defenses, disrupt marine biodiversity, and lead to coastal erosion.

Ravi Jaspal,
Jalandhar, India.

Save the Manchar Lake

Pakistan’s largest freshwater lake, Manchar Lake, urgently needs attention due to severe pollution, declining water quality, and ecological degradation. Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and reduced freshwater inflows have turned the lake into a contaminated reservoir, endangering local communities and wildlife. Fishermen who depend on it for their livelihood face economic hardships as fish populations dwindle. The lake’s deteriorating condition also contributes to waterborne diseases, threatening public health. Without immediate conservation efforts, including pollution control and sustainable water management, Manchar Lake could become an environmental disaster. Urgent government intervention and sustainable policies are needed to restore its ecological balance.

Ashraf Ghani,
Hyderabad, Pakistan.

Age of American Authoritarianism

America›s democratic institutions are facing a severe test as the country teeters on the edge of authoritarianism under Donald Trump. His rhetoric and actions have systematically undermined democratic norms, eroding the rule of law, free press, and electoral integrity. His efforts to overturn election results, pressure state officials, and encourage violence—culminating in the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol—exemplify his willingness to subvert democracy for personal power. From the word go, Trump has demonstrated an alarming disregard for democratic principles, weakening the independence of the judiciary, law enforcement, and even the military.

S. V. Parkash,
Mumbai, India.

Objectives behind Aurat March

The Aurat March has become an annual event in major Pakistani cities, but we need more concrete measures on the ground to address women›s harassment and discrimination. Tokenism can give the illusion of progress while real disparities persist. Leadership must be paired with policies that uplift all women. Appointing women to high-ranking positions without addressing barriers such as workplace discrimination, gender pay gaps, and limited access to education does not create lasting equality. Moreover, the struggles women face do not always reflect the challenges of other women. Elite women may have privileges that shield them from the discrimination and obstacles that most women encounter daily. True gender equality requires systemic change—legal protections, economic empowerment, and cultural shifts—not just a few women in high-profile positions.

Beenish Soomro,
Larkana, Pakistan.