Looking at 2025

As 2025 dawns, the world and Pakistan stand at a critical crossroads. Globally, the mood is uncertain, with conflicts casting a shadow over hopes for peace.

Domestically, Pakistan is grappling with deep political and military tussles, the daily sacrifices of its soldiers, and the relentless grip of terrorism. Political violence and denial dominate the landscape, leaving ordinary citizens yearning for stability and clarity.

The world awaits the inauguration of Donald Trump’s new US administration, an event stirring as much trepidation as anticipation. Internally, the American public is bracing for the first 30 or 100 days, anticipating bold decisions rooted in campaign promises.

While Trump has pledged to focus on America and make it great again, his unpredictable and provocative statements about global relations create anxiety across continents. This calculated strategy seems aimed at unsettling foreign governments, adding further uncertainty to an already volatile world.

For Pakistan, 2025 must be a year of decisive action and vision. Political brinkmanship, endless trials, and the misuse of religion to promote narrow ideologies has deprived 240 million people of peace and the basic means to survive. The magnitude of this challenge cannot be overstated, and it is incumbent on the nation’s leaders to chart a clear pathway for Pakistan’s future.

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz’s Christmas celebrations with Christian leaders offered a warm and welcome gesture, momentarily bridging divides. However, these symbolic cake-cutting events cannot overshadow the harsh realities faced by Pakistan’s minorities. The government and political leaders must move beyond optics to enforce rule of law for all citizens, ensuring equal protection and dignity, particularly for marginalised communities.

Internally, the increasing deaths of Pakistani soldiers and the armed forces’ patience in managing border tensions, particularly with Afghanistan, underscore the fragile state of regional relations. With the Taliban likely to respond to Pakistan’s airstrikes inside Afghanistan, the situation demands thoughtful diplomacy to avert further escalation. At the same time, inflammatory social media narratives, such as Richard Grenell’s tweets about Imran Khan, complicate Pakistan’s relations with the US.

Domestically, the PTI’s provocations and subsequent claims of victimhood continue to test the state’s resolve to maintain order. Pakistan’s leaders must focus on stabilising the internal and border situation, concluding the May 9 inquiries, and delivering justice through transparent and legal processes. The people are weary of political chaos, border disputes, and global pressures.

Despite the doom and gloom, the world also celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ with joy and hope. Amid this darkness, billions found solace in faith and the promise of a better tomorrow. Pakistani leaders must channel this hope into action, addressing their citizens' pressing concerns with urgency and compassion.

As we navigate a world rife with challenges, from the unpredictability of US foreign policy to the threats posed by climate change and economic instability, the need for visionary leadership has never been greater. Pakistan's leaders must seize this moment, making 2025 a turning point for justice, peace, and progress. To all, I wish a peaceful and hopeful New Year. Let us strive together for a world where justice prevails, and humanity thrives.

The writer’s forthcoming book, ‘Beyond the Brink: Christians of Pakistan in Search of Coexistence in a Hostile and Turbulent Pakistan’, delves into the challenges faced by Pakistan’s Christian community while advocating for visionary leadership and a progressive future.