Pakistan Inflation and desperation

Pakistan | As the debate rages on about the economic intricacies of inflation, foreign currency fluctuations, and mounting debt pressure, the real suffering is quietly unfolding in the lives of ordinary people. It is the lower- to middle-income groups that bear the brunt of these economic challenges, and it's high time we consider what the state and society can do to alleviate their plight.

The Cry for Help:

Over the past few years, a concerning trend has emerged. It's the increasing number of individuals seeking help from organizations I've been associated with. What's particularly alarming is that this phenomenon is no longer restricted to those at the lowest income levels. Even individuals with mid-level salaries are now reaching out for assistance. They seek help to pay school fees, cover unexpected and substantial increases in utility bills, address emergency healthcare expenses, and bridge the financial gap between their salaries and household expenses.

A Desperate Call:

In recent months, delivery riders who have dropped off food or packages at our doorstep have gone a step further. They've called for help, even though we are strangers to them. It underscores the desperation these individuals are feeling. Despite working full-time, some even working beyond that, they find themselves unable to make ends meet. On one hand, it reflects the dire circumstances people are facing. On the other hand, it places those of us who are asked for help in an uncomfortable position. While we may be able to assist a few individuals on occasion, it's impossible to gauge whose need is the most pressing, leading to mutual embarrassment.

A Widespread Issue:

The issue extends beyond delivery riders. Taxi and rickshaw drivers, parking attendants, and even sales staff at grocery stores have begun seeking help. These are individuals who work tirelessly but still struggle to meet their basic needs due to the relentless grip of inflation.

The Psychological Toll:

This situation raises concerns about the social and psychological impact it will have. It's not easy for individuals to ask strangers for financial help. Many feel embarrassed and demeaned by the necessity of doing so. But they are left with no alternative. This ongoing struggle is bound to create emotional trauma.

Challenges for All:

The predicament also affects those being asked for help. It's difficult to decline these requests, especially when one understands the genuine need caused by inflation. However, it's impossible to help everyone who asks, creating a social and psychological burden for both sides.

The Need for Action:

At the state level, there's a pressing need to substantially increase allocations for social protection programs. Given the impact of inflation, beneficiaries should receive larger sums. Additionally, these programs should expand to encompass education and healthcare coverage, unemployment benefits, and income supplements for full-time workers who still fall below a certain income threshold.

While the government often cites financial constraints as an obstacle, we must question whether they are genuinely committed to supporting those in need. It is no secret that substantial subsidies flow to the affluent and special interest groups, which could be redirected to support the working poor if prioritized.

The Role of Society:

Can society come together to assist the financially disadvantaged more effectively, thereby reducing the need for personalized appeals? While individual efforts are commendable, they remain unorganized, leaving many in need. Establishing trustworthy organizations at the local and national levels is essential, although this is a long-term endeavor.

These are indeed challenging times, with too many people suffering. The economic scars left behind by inflation will be accompanied by social and psychological scars. Regrettably, the state's response to this crisis remains insufficient. Short of widespread unrest, it seems unlikely that the government will change its priorities. However, the disorganized state of society makes it difficult to manage help and relief effectively. The future remains uncertain, as economic conditions are not expected to improve rapidly, leaving mounting pressure on those who are struggling.

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