The Lahore Resolution, adopted in March 1940, rejected the concept of a united India. Instead, it proposed the creation of an independent state for the Muslims of the subcontinent. While it did not mention Pakistan by name, it was this resolution that paved the way for its creation.

Jinnah’s vision of Pakistan was of a state which “wholly and solely concentrates on the wellbeing of the people, and especially of the masses and the poor”. However, coherent lawmaking in support of this grand vision has been slow. For the first nine years of its existence the country did not have a formal constitution. Since then, Pakistan has seen three constitutions and 25 amendments have been made to the current one. Most of these amendments have been highly political. It is generally agreed that the constitution has served the republic well and contributed to the wellbeing of Pakistani people.

Even the best possible legislation is not of much use unless it is followed by effective implementation. Successive governments have introduced a number of social welfare programmes to provide assistance to the poor and the marginalised of the country. There is still a long way to go especially with the Covid-19 pandemic still raging. The effort to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals seem to be a journey in the right direction. The 2025 vision for Pakistan aims to give life to what is termed by officials as the ‘Pakistani Dream’. This dream embodies the vision of a prosperous, equitable, tolerant, and dynamic society. According to Vision 2025, such a society has been at the heart of the movement for Pakistan.

In over 73 years of its existence, the country has seen many changes. These range from the loss of a majority of the population in 1971 and military takeovers to revival democratic governance. We have come a long way. The assemblies elected in 2018 may be the third batch in succession to complete its tenure. A greater focus on institution building and a bit of economic success can lead to prosperity that has so far eluded us. There is no reason to abandon hope.