Despite positive media coverage of Pakistan's diplomatic role in responding to the Middle East crisis, the country's economic challenges remain unresolved. Government officials argue that macroeconomic indicators have improved and that the economy is stabilising. Yet, for many Pakistanis, the reality continues to be defined by rising living costs, stagnant incomes and limited employment opportunities.

The tension between fiscal stabilisation and public welfare is becoming increasingly visible. To reduce the fiscal deficit and maintain access to international financing, Pakistan has committed to higher energy tariffs, new revenue measures and stricter fiscal discipline.

While these measures, however shoddily implemented, may improve some headline economic indicators, the burden of adjustment will continue falling on salaried workers, documented businesses, ordinary households, and the marginalised masses. Meanwhile, politically influential actors with substantial economic power, with........

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