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Pakistan: Young Nation Faces Strained Future
10 Dec
Summary
- Pakistan's population nears 257 million with a 1.82% annual growth rate.
- Total fertility rate stands at 3.25 births per woman, higher than regional peers.
- Weak social indicators like low life expectancy and high child mortality persist.
Pakistan's population has now exceeded an estimated 257 million, positioning it among the world's most populous countries. While fertility and growth rates are declining, the annual population growth remains at 1.82%, with a total fertility rate of 3.25 births per woman. This trajectory guarantees substantial population increases for at least another generation, placing immense pressure on public services and resources.
The nation faces a complex demographic transition, marked by rapid numerical expansion alongside slow gains in human development. Life expectancy is low at 60.5 years, and under-five mortality is nearly 65 deaths per 1,000 live births. This disparity signifies that family sizes are shrinking faster than improvements in health and longevity, creating significant societal challenges.
Experts warn that the country's heavily youth-weighted population structure will intensify demands on education, housing, and employment through the coming decades. Without sustained economic growth and job creation, this youth bulge could lead to instability. The next two decades are critical for Pakistan to invest in health, education, and economic productivity to harness its demographic dividend or risk amplifying unemployment and fiscal strain.
