Digital dystopia

The 21st century is an era of digital transformation. Countries around the world are witnessing unparalleled progress in the technology sector. From artificial intelligence to driverless cars, the internet has become the backbone of modern life. But in Pakistan, the digital landscape seems to be moving backward. For years, Pakistan has struggled with slow internet speed, frequent disruptions, and an increasing crackdown on digital freedoms. These issues have only escalated in recent times. The banning of X (formerly Twitter), the imposition of national firewalls, and the throttling or outright blocking of unregistered VPNs paint a grim picture of the country’s digital future. With the recent decision by the PTA to require VPN providers to obtain a Class License for Data Services, the situation seems to be worsening. The PTA’s rationale is to monitor VPN traffic to ‘address security concerns’, but in reality, this could lead to unprecedented surveillance.

Compounding the issue is the announcement that a new undersea internet cable is being laid to improve connectivity in the country. While the project promises to enhance internet speed and reliability, it is hard to believe that Pakistanis will see any significant benefits given the ongoing restrictions. This year alone has seen more internet disruptions than ever before, and the idea that a new undersea cable could resolve the issue seems more like a hollow promise than a genuine solution. The harsh reality is that even with access to faster internet, the digital environment in Pakistan remains hostile, limiting citizens’ ability to access basic services and information freely. The government’s approach to the internet problem is emblematic of its broader authoritarian tendencies. In a world where social media platforms play a critical role in connecting people, sharing information, and fostering democratic discourse, Pakistanis often find themselves unable to send voice notes, pictures, or videos, let alone access these platforms without using a VPN. What was once considered a basic right is now a luxury, subject to arbitrary restrictions, political maneuvering, and governmental censorship. This is the new normal in Pakistan – and it is utterly unacceptable.

The government’s coalition partner, the PPP, has been vocal in its criticism of the government’s internet shutdowns and disruptions. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recently urged students to fight for a digital bill of rights, stressing that internet access is a democratic right that should not be subject to government whims. Such a bill of rights would be an important step, but it is not enough. All political parties need to rally behind this cause and take a firm stand for the digital rights of Pakistan’s citizens. It’s clear that the government’s experiments with the internet have led to far-reaching consequences. Freelancers, online businesses, e-commerce platforms, and small businesses have suffered heavy losses due to the unreliable and restricted internet environment. Online education, which many students depend on, has become increasingly difficult to access. Media outlets, too, are facing the brunt of the government’s digital authoritarianism. The state’s approach to managing digital content seems to be more about silencing dissent than addressing security concerns.

These measures are not just damaging to Pakistan’s economy and its international reputation but to the very fabric of democracy itself. In an age where information flows freely, governments should be focusing on educating citizens, promoting digital literacy, and fostering an open and transparent digital ecosystem. But the narrative from the government seems to be: if you cannot counter a message, shut it down. What the government fails to understand is that draconian laws will never stop the free flow of information. People will always find ways to bypass restrictions, whether through VPNs, encrypted messaging apps, or other means. The country is already facing significant economic challenges. By continuing to undermine the digital rights of its citizens, Pakistan risks losing its competitive edge in the global economy. If the government persists in its current course, Pakistan will not just miss the digital revolution – it will be left in the past, struggling to catch up.