M O N T H LY C U R R E N T A F FA I R S N E W S L E T T E R
FEBRUARY 2024
VOL. IX ISSUE 8 CPL-30
P akistan stands at a critical juncture in its history. With the worry-
ing spectre of post elections manoeuvring, the nation faces signif-
icant challenges. The country's most popular politician behind the
bars had cast doubt on the prospects for a genuinely democratic electoral
process. The role of the all-powerful establishment, and judicial debates
have been echoing, pre-elections. The legislative steps such as the E-
Safety Bill, Personal Data Protection Bill, Official Secrets (Amendment)
Bill and amendments to the Army Act had not only raised discontent and
a furore against pre-elections manoeuvring, but also generated legal
E D I TO RI A L
debates questioning the validity of such acts in a democracy. Post elec-
tions, the discussions about the inefficiency of the election commission
have been haunting the political spectrum. Significantly, the unofficial
results have been both revealing of the wishes of the masses and yet the
will of the real power brokers. Concurrently, Pakistan grapples with a
faltering economy marked by escalating poverty, and dependence on
IMF alongside a disturbing increase in terrorist activities. The road
ahead is not just bumpy, but also a maze and a crossroads portending a
divisive and a dark political journey.
The world community has also expressed its concerns over the
fairness and process of elections. British Foreign Minister David
Cameron said, “We express regret that certain political leaders were
barred from participating in the elections and that identifiable party
symbols could not be used, and that not all parties were officially
allowed to run for office.” He emphasized upon the need to free trial,
transparent judiciary and further said, “We also note the restrictions
imposed on internet access on polling day, significant delays to the
reporting of results, and claims of irregularities in the counting process.”
Post Election Challenges
IN THIS ISSUE ...
• The Evolution of INTERPOL: Bridging Nations in the Fight ...
• Colonialism Is Alive and Well: Dissecting the P5 and UNSC ...
• Tech–age: Establishing women laws in an AI world
• The Political Turmoils of Balochistan
• IMEC: A Challenger to China's BRI - Unveiling the Origins ...
The United States, State Department, has also urged for a thorough
investigation into allegations of interference or fraud during Pakistan's
recent general elections. The US State Department condemned “elec-
toral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and funda-
mental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions
on access to the Internet and telecommunication services.” The Euro-
pean Union also called “upon the relevant authorities to ensure a timely
and full investigation of all reported election irregularities and to imple-
ment the recommendations of the upcoming EU Election Expert Mission
report.” This indicates that the expected coalition government might face
protests and allegations of rigging within the country, triggering further
political instability in an already politically polarized state.
Pakistan faces concerns over proposed bills like the E-Safety and
Personal Data Protection Bill, potentially enabling state surveillance and
suppressing online free speech, while amendments to the Pakistan Army
Act raise fears of authoritarian control. Economic challenges, including
inflation and fiscal deficits, coupled with reliance on IMF programs
amid the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside terrorist threats and regional
instability, underscore the urgent need for Pakistan's elite to prioritize
unity and steer the country towards inclusive development.
Ali Inan (Lahore, Pakistan)
CHIEF EXECUTIVE: ABID WAZIR KHAN
ADVISORY BOARD:
SARWAR SUKHERA, HASSAN NISAR,
KHAN HASHAM BIN SIDDIQUE, DR. ZAFAR JASPAL
HUSSAIN SHAHEED SOHARWARDI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DR. SHAHID WAZIR KHAN
DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: SARAH SHAHID WAZIR
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: M. SHAHRUKH
CO-EDITOR (CSS): ALI INAN
CORRESPONDENTS:
NISAR UL HAQ (UK), AKBAR PASHA (USA),
BELINDA ROBERTSON (AUSTRALIA),
ASAD RASHEED (MIDDLE EAST)
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MARCH’24 • 1

Exploring Insights from the 27th GCC-EU Joint Council for Global
Sustainability: Strategic Alliances and Climate Initiatives
T The 27th Joint GCC-EU Ministe-
rial Council in Muscat highlighted
the significant progress in the
strategic partnership since its inception
in 1988. Oman's foreign minister, Sayyid
Badr Hamad Al-Busaidi, emphasized
addressing xenophobia and
Islamophobia and proposed initiatives
such as establishing an expert group on
energy and climate change and closer
collaboration on cybersecurity. Both
parties acknowledged advancements
since their last meeting in Brussels in
February 2022, emphasizing regional
stability and prosperity. The Council
approved recommendations from the
12th GCC-EU Macroeconomic Dialogue,
prioritizing integration and sustainable
business environments. Additionally,
they celebrated outcomes from the 5th
Trade and Investment Dialogue, focus-
ing on economic integration, renewable
energy, digital trade, and global value
chains, while also welcoming discus-
sions on the India-Middle East-
European Corridor.
Addressing The Urgent Issue Of
Climate Change:
The Joint Council highlights the
importance of working together to
address climate change, adapt to its
impacts, and promote renewable energy
development. It is dedicated to fulfilling
the agreements made in COP27 and
strongly encourages active participation
in COP28. Highlighting the principles of
the climate agreement, the goal is to fos-
ter a collective commitment to reducing
carbon emissions, with a particular
emphasis on collaborating in areas such
as hydrogen and renewable integration.
2 • MARCH’24
The Council appreciates and backs ini-
tiatives like Saudi Arabia's Green Middle
East and the UAE's endeavors to strive
for climate neutrality.
Advancing Scientific Research And
Space Cooperation:
The Council highlights the immense
possibilities of GCC-EU collaboration in
scientific research and innovation. This
partnership has the potential to generate
solutions, foster job creation, and
effectively tackle the challenges posed by
green and digital transitions.
Emphasizing the significance of GCC
countries' engagement in Horizon
Europe, it extends an invitation to
participate in Mission Innovation.
Stressing the importance of space
systems, the Council suggests
collaborating on projects such as the
European Geostationary Navigation
Overlay Service (EGNOS), recognizing
the value of Copernicus and Galileo.
Regional Security And Cooperation
The Council suggests fostering a
dynamic conversation, collaborating
through joint working groups, and
ensuring coordination on various
pressing matters such as nuclear
proliferation, cybersecurity,
counterterrorism, and disaster
response. Officials are directed to
explore coordination with the EU's
Coordinated Maritime Presence (CMP),
and a high-level forum on regional
security in Brussels is welcomed. This
initiative enhances official meetings and
engages the GCC Secretariat and the
GCC Member States in promoting
regional security and cooperation.
Tackling Global Challenges:
Humanitarian Crises, Regional
Conflicts, and the Israel-Palestine
Situation
Emphasizing Humanitarian
Assistance And Political
Resolution:
The Joint Council understands the
importance of global cooperation and is
committed to addressing humanitarian
needs through collaborative efforts out-
lined in the GCC-EU Joint Action Pro-
gram (2022-2027). The Council empha-
sizes the significance of enhancing the
international humanitarian system and
supporting initiatives to establish a resil-
ient and efficient response to crises aris-
ing from natural disasters and conflicts.
An exciting development has occurred
with establishing structured cooperation
for humanitarian aid. This was high-
lighted by the GCC Aid Committee and
EU services coming together for a Sep-
tember 20, 2023, meeting. This initiative
aims to foster collaboration and enhance
communication by establishing a net-
work of focal points, regular meetings,
sharing best practices and information,
and a coordination mechanism between
the EU Emergency Response Coordina-
tion Centre and the GCC Emergency
Management Center.
Comments On The Israel-
Palestine Dispute:
The Council places a strong empha-
sis on the Israel-Palestine conflict, high-
lighting the importance of adhering to
international humanitarian law. Releas-
ing the hostages promptly and ensuring
unrestricted access to necessities like
food, water, and medicine requires a
display of restraint. Emphasizing a
strong dedication to a two-state solution
for Israel-Palestine based on the 1967
lines, in alignment with the Arab Peace
Initiative and relevant UN resolutions,
the Council strongly supports providing
additional financial assistance to
UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, and
addressing the humanitarian and devel-
opmental requirements in the occupied
Palestinian territory. The Council aims
to make meaningful contributions to
global stability, security, and coopera-
tion through these dynamic and engag-
ing discussions. The Joint Council com-
mended the diplomatic efforts made by
Saudi Arabia and other GCC states in
engaging with Iran for regional de-
escalation. The Joint Council expressed
its strong support for the Treaty on the
Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
and called on Iran to fulfill its nuclear
obligations promptly while also urging
them to reverse their nuclear escalation.
In addition, it highlighted the impor-
tance of UNSC Resolution 2231 while
calling on Iran to stop the spread of bal-
listic missiles, uncrewed aerial vehicles,
and other weapons that pose significant
security risks to the region and beyond.
Pakistan's Strategic Gains from the
27th GCC-EU Joint Council:
Pakistan has many chances in criti-
cal fields at the 27th GCC-EU Joint Coun-
cil. First and foremost, in line with Paki-
stan's environmental objectives, the
emphasis on addressing climate change
and protecting the environment opens
up opportunities for technological inno-
vations and financial assistance through
collaborative efforts. Furthermore,
regarding scientific research and space
cooperation, Pakistan can significantly
benefit from collaborating with the GCC
and EU nations. This collaboration will
boost Pakistan's technological capabili-
ties, promote innovation, and drive eco-
nomic growth. Furthermore, the Coun-
cil's focus on regional security perfectly
complements Pakistan's strategic posi-
tion, providing an opportunity to partici-
pate actively in crucial areas like
counterterrorism and disaster response.
In addition, Pakistan's expertise in han-
dling humanitarian crises makes it well-
equipped to contribute substantially to
global relief efforts. Furthermore, Paki-
stan's strategic location presents a great
opportunity for economic growth, as it
can capitalize on increased trade and
investment opportunities. The Council's
vision of economic integration and sus-
tainable business environments will be
crucial.
A
postal code, also called a zip code,
serves as a unique identifier for a
specific geographic location,
facilitating the efficient delivery or col-
lection of mail. The system utilizes a com-
bination of alphanumeric and numeric
codes, typically five to six characters. The
postal code was created to help postal
departments and courier companies
streamline the distribution process and
accurately track mail delivery locations.
Postal codes are essential for ensuring
any shipment's precise and effective
delivery. These codes are necessary at
the end of addresses. The terms "postal
code" and "zip code" are often used inter-
changeably, as they both serve a similar
purpose in facilitating mail delivery.
Some key differences between the postal
code and the zip code are worth noting:
In 1959, the postal code came into exis-
tence, featuring a unique blend of num-
bers, letters, and punctuation marks. On
the other hand, the zip code was intro-
duced by the United States Postal Ser-
vices (USPS) in 1963, with a focus solely
on numbers. Zip codes are the go-to for
addressing in the US and the Philip-
pines, while the rest of the countries rely
on postal codes. The use of zip codes
allows for easy reference and identifica-
tion of locations. However, postal codes
have a broader jurisdiction, encompass-
ing location identification, reference,
demographic information, and route
planning.
Avoiding Life-Saving Information
Kills:
Sex education is taboo in Pakistani
primary schools. Advocates against it
overlook students' resourcefulness. Stud-
ies show comprehensive sex education
delays first experiences, reduces part-
ners, and promotes contraceptive use.
Lack of it increases risks of abuse, coer-
cion, and harmful practices like FGM
and early marriages, per WHO and
UNFPA. Insufficient sex education links
to women's health issues, intimate part-
ner violence, and WHO-identified preg-
nancy-related deaths. Comprehensive
sex education correlates with reduced
unwanted pregnancies, STIs, and
A Journey Through
the Evolution of Postal
and Zip Codes, Tracing
Historical Roots and
Modern Significance
HIV/AIDS. Pakistan's high porn watch-
ing doesn't correlate with sex education
evidence. Porn use without sex educa-
tion worsens social issues. Nations with
comprehensive sex education have lower
porn viewership. Denying young people
sex education hinders their safety. Sex
education is vital for a robust and secure
society.
Exploring the Historical Origins of
the Postal Code System:
In 1840, London pioneered postal
codes to address the challenges of a
growing population and increasing mail
volume. Sir Rowland Hill's innovation in
1857 divided the city into postal districts,
significantly improving the efficiency of
letter delivery. During World War I in
1917, the postal system underwent
restructuring, introducing sub-districts
and serial numbers to enhance
efficiency. Ukraine revolutionized postal
systems in 1932 with indexing, inspiring
other countries like Germany to adopt
similar systems. Post-World War II, the
surge in mail order businesses led to the
mechanization of mail volume, with
Robert Moon's introduction of the zip
code in 1944, primarily used in the US
and the Philippines. Over time, postal
codes have evolved beyond mail
delivery, finding applications in health
research, demographics, marketing, and
more.
The Postal System in Pakistan:
The postal system was quite unique
in the subcontinent during the Mughal
Empire. It relied on the dedicated "Dak"
runners who would creatively and
actively carry messages from one
location to another, ensuring the safe
delivery of mail or letters to the intended
recipients. At first, the system was
limited to the Sindh region. However, as
territorial control expanded, it began to
be implemented from north Sindh to
lower Punjab. With the British taking
control of Sindh and Punjab in 1845, a
growing realization arose for expanding
the postal system and accelerating
communication.
Sir Bartle Frere enhanced the system by
MARCH’24 • 3
substituting runners with camels and
horses. The positive outcomes and
efficient delivery led to effective
communication between government
officials and their counterparts.
Therefore, the Scinde Railway was built
in 1855, paving the way for the
subsequent expansion of railway
transportation from Karachi to Gilgit in
1886. Additional improvements were
necessary to enhance the efficiency and
convenience of the sorting process. As of
January 1, 1988, the postal system in this
region implemented five-digit postal
codes. The establishment of the Pakistan
ing the port, which has been up and run-
ning since 2016. China has a lease on the
Navigating the Seas port until 2059. The port is crucial in the
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
of Prosperity - (CPEC). By connecting it to the Maritime
Decoding the Impact Silk Road and Belt and Road projects,
Gwadar Port's connectivity supports
and Exploring the initiatives like Pak-Afghan commerce
and CPEC.
Role of Seaports in The Muhammad Bin Qasim Seaport:
Pakistan's Economy The Muhammad Bin Qasim Sea-
port, located in Karachi, is the second
busiest port in Pakistan. It was con-
structed in 1890 and paid homage to the
economy and nearby communities.
Ormara, situated between Karachi and
Gwadar, has a rich historical significance
that stretches back to ancient times.
With Pakistan's second-largest naval
facility present, Ormara is a thriving
center for the country's fishing industry
and enjoys a robust economy. By 2030,
the government has a vision to com-
pletely revitalize Ormara, intending to
turn it into a bustling and strategically
crucial maritime hub. Pasni Port, located
on the stunning Makran coast, functions
as a vibrant seaport under the manage-
ment of the Balochistan Port Authority.

Postal Office came after gaining
independence, operating under the
modified Post Office Act VI, 1898. At
first, it began operating as the
Department of Post and Telegraph.
However, the Pakistani government
decided to split the department and
create a separate entity called Pakistan
Post, which falls under the Ministry of
Communications. Today, the federal
minister of communications and the
chairman/director-general of Pakistan
hold the highest positions within the
organization. Management and allied
services operate at three distinct levels
beneath the director-general. At the
Circle Level, the postmaster general
oversees regional operations. Support
for postmaster’s general comes from
regional deputy postmasters general and
A
seaport" is a commercial water
facility in a state that houses the
port's ships, docks, cranes, and
other equipment required to handle com-
modities. Seaports play a crucial role in
connecting regional and international
markets, enabling the smooth transfer of
products. On the other hand, ports offer
a haven for ships and other watercraft to
drop anchor. Pakistan possesses signifi-
cant economic and military influence
due to its advantageous location. Paki-
stan has leveraged its expansive coast-
line, spanning over 1064 kilometers, to
establish strategic alliances with China
and enhance trade with landlocked Cen-
tral Asian nations. The Karachi Harbour
and Port hold immense significance in
Pakistan, boasting a rich and captivating
history that dates back to 1557 during the
Muslim ruler Muhammad Bin Qasim.
With an impressive 35% share of the
country's marine commerce, this port
boasts remarkable figures. It welcomes a
staggering 1,500 port visits annually,
handles a massive 700,000 TEUs of con-
tainer volume, and moves an astounding
16.6 million tons of cargo annually. Since
the 1980s, the 50-square-kilometer arti-
ficial port has been actively serving
domestic and international shipping
lines. Its strategic location near various
industrial districts, such as the Korangi
Industrial Area, Mehran Town,
Lucknow Society, and Allah Wala Town,
makes it a preferred choice. This location
is conveniently situated near the cus-
toms office and boasts 273 industrial
units, streamlining import and export
Pasni is a small but mighty town that
tackles economic issues head-on and
excels in managing trade activities, all
thanks to the Balochistan Sea Fisheries
Act. The port's strategic location high-
lights its capacity to support exports that insufficiencies. Lastly, there has been a
meet EU standards, substantially con- complete disregard for issues related to
tributing to the local population's
income through fishing. These ports
socioeconomic status. The policy-
making process fails to adequately
Decoding Iran-
highlight Pakistan's impressive mari-
time capabilities and crucial contribu-
include the local populace living near the
seaports, resulting in a lack of Pakistan Border
tions to regional and national economic
growth.
representation. Residents are
increasingly frustrated with the stagnant
growth at seaports, as it directly impacts
Skirmishes and
What Factors Are Hindering The their well-being. Global Ripple
Complete Utilization Of Pakistan's
Seaports:
Could Unforgiving Currents Be
Reversed:
Effects
Pakistan's strategic placement on
Pakistan offers a gateway to markets
the periphery of the Arabian Sea makes it

unit officers at the operational level
within the divisional/district structure
at the regional level.
Conclusion:
The Universal Postal Union,
established in 1874 and now part of the
United Nations, coordinates global
postal policies, while World Post Day is
celebrated each October 9th. Pakistan
Post recently achieved a significant
milestone by digitizing its services,
focusing on salary and savings facilities,
staying relevant by embracing e-
commerce and expanding its network,
with postal and zip codes playing a vital
role in ensuring timely parcel delivery.
reign of the Mughal Empire. The port has
a rich history, serving as a crucial sea-
borne route during the British colonial
era. Today, it remains a bustling hub,
processing an impressive 65.62 million
tons of cargo yearly. This accounts for
approximately 60% of the country's over-
all commerce. Its 41 berths and eight
wharves can easily accommodate com-
mercial boats, spanning 32 kilometers.
A new project has recently been
launched in Pakistan's Balochistan prov-
ince, the Gwadar Port, to enhance the
region's economic and social well-being.
This seaport is widely recognized as the
deepest in the world, covering an
impressive 2,292 acres. The Gwadar
Port Authority is responsible for manag-
procedures. Inside the port, you'll find
three distinct areas tailored to cater to
different industries.
Exploring Pakistan's Strategic
Maritime Landscape:
Three important ports—Keti
B a n d a r , O r m a r a , a n d
Pasni—considerably impact Pakistan's
nautical landscape. Keti Bandar, the
nation's oldest port, is a vital player in
the local economy, especially in support-
ing the fishing sector. Strategically
located near the Indus River and the
national highway, its continuous growth
under the China-Pakistan Economic
Corridor (CPEC) holds great promise for
making substantial contributions to the
an ideal location for commerce. In the
modern world, the three main ports in
Pakistan—Karachi, Gwadar, and Bin
Qasim—fall short when handling the
expected marine trade volume. The lack
of operational skills can be attributed to
various factors, such as concerns
surrounding politics, security,
technology, and the economy. According
to the Logistics Performance Indicators
(LPI), Pakistan's seaport industries have
been experiencing a decline in
comparison to Sri Lanka and
Bangladesh. Pakistan's marine
prospects are at risk due to the
unpredictable government, causing
investors to be wary. Politics has become
incredibly polarized, with federal and
provincial officials deviating from their
responsibilities. Many people have
expressed concerns about the security
risks connected to the construction of
Gwadar Port. Since the start, various
internal and foreign parties have been
working to undermine the initiative,
which is considered unfair to the local
Baloch community. Due to a lack of
foresight, numerous technological flaws
can be considered. Pakistan's seaports
have great potential but face obstacles
due to inadequate port structure and
infrastructure challenges. Despite the
effectiveness of intermodal and
multimodal transportation systems, the
value chain still suffers from persistent
in China, Afghanistan, and various
Central Asian nations. It would benefit
the government to seize this opportunity
and explore ways to alleviate Pakistan's
socioeconomic burden by engaging in
negotiations and making strategic
investments. The port of Gwadar has the
potential to become a transshipment
center due to its strategic location near
the Strait of Hormuz. Enhancing port
expansion could be accelerated and
enhanced by incorporating additional
berths and implementing a cutting-edge
automated system for cargo and customs
clearance. One way to address social
ignorance in impoverished areas near
seaports is through capacity-building
and policy-making activities. These
efforts can help foster inclusion and
reduce polarization between responsible
authorities and the local community.
Conclusion:
Unfortunately, Pakistan has missed
multiple opportunities to demonstrate
its marine capabilities. As a result of
rising inflation and deteriorating
political situations, the challenging
global import/export business has
harmed the nation's trade and
commerce. Pakistan's ports have proven
to be valuable assets over the years, with
the potential for even greater prosperity
if the relevant authorities prioritize their
development.
I
n an unprecedented rise in tensions,
Iran launched missile attacks deep
into Pakistani territory on January
16, 2024, with the primary target being
Panjgur. The two neighbouring states
have a troubled history. The event took
place in a highly secretive manner, with
the Pakistani government enforcing a
media blackout and limiting coverage of
the incident. The situation escalated
even more when Pakistan responded
within 48 hours, launching drone
attacks on Saravan using various weap-
ons and munitions. The public is left
grappling with uncertainty due to the
lack of transparency, media restrictions,
and suppression of information, which
has fueled rumours and conspiracies. In
order to fully understand the complexi-
ties of this conflict, it is crucial to explore
the historical context, the ever-changing
dynamics of the border, and the external
factors that contribute to the intricate
web of regional tensions.
The Pakistan-Iran border has a rich
and eventful history:
The recent missile exchange
between Pakistan and Iran has its origins
in a long history of animosities and bor-
der skirmishes that have defined their
relationship in the past decade. A series
of troubling incidents have character-
ised the conflict, starting with the abduc-
tion of five Iranian border guards in

4 • MARCH’24 MARCH’24 • 5
2014. These guards were allegedly trans-
ported into Pakistani territory, serving
as an early flashpoint. Iranian guards
shot and killed Pakistani citizens within
Pakistan's borders in the same year,
which heightened tensions. The attack
on an FC vehicle by Iranian Border
Guards and the launch of 42 rockets into
Kech by Iran in 2014 further fueled the
ongoing border skirmishes.
In 2015, the situation took a turn for
the worse as Iran launched mortar shells
into the Saboor area of the Panjgur dis-
trict, indicating a worrisome increase in
hostilities. Following claims made by the
militant group Jaish al-Adl regarding the
murder of ten Iranian Border Guards,
Iran issued a severe warning to Pakistan
in 2017. Unless immediate action is
taken to address the issue of cross-
border terrorism, Iran has made it clear
that it will direct its attention towards
bases in Pakistan. In response, Iran car-
ried out a mortar attack on Talap in the
Chagai District. In 2017, tensions esca-
lated when Pakistan shot down an Ira-
nian UAV in Panjgur, further complicat-
ing the already strained relations. In
2018, tensions escalated between the
two nations, highlighted by a tragic inci-
dent in Chabahar involving a suicide car
bomb that resulted in the loss of four
lives and left 42 people injured. Pakistan
was indirectly implicated in supporting
the terrorists behind the attack. In Feb-
ruary 2021, the Islamic Revolutionary
Guard Corps (IRGC) proudly announced
the successful rescue of two Iranian
guards who had been kidnapped in Paki-
stan. This daring operation was a testa-
ment to the IRGC's resourcefulness and
determination. In late 2021, there was a
loss of an FC soldier on the Pakistani side
due to cross-border firing, which added
to the complexity of the already intricate
and volatile relationship between Paki-
stan and Iran. Another tragic incident
occurred in January 2023, when mili-
tants using Iranian territory to launch
their attack claimed the lives of four sol-
diers in Pakistan. In April, another
attack took place in Jagal, resulting in
the loss of four additional Pakistani sol-
diers. In June of the same year, the Kech
district near the border witnessed the
loss of two more Pakistani soldiers.
Iran's missile strike on Panjgur was a
6 • MARCH’24
direct response to the ongoing border
skirmishes and clashes, prompting Paki-
stan to retaliate swiftly within 48 hours.
The Role of Israel:
The Iran-Pakistan conflict is deeply
intertwined with complex geopolitical
dynamics, which are further
complicated by shifting regional power
dynamics and external involvement,
particularly from Israel. The ongoing
conflict in Gaza and Israel's actions
against Palestinians have far-reaching
consequences worldwide. Iran supports
groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, while
the United States provides unwavering
support for Israel. The recent missile
strike on Pakistan by Iran is seen as a
component of a larger interplay among
regional actors, showcasing historical
grievances and wider geopolitical
complexities in the Middle East. Groups
supported by Iran frequently launch
proxy attacks against the U.S. due to its
alliance with Israel, which adds to the
overall volatility. Israel's orchestrated
proxy attacks in Iran could potentially
lead to a larger conflict, drawing in
external forces such as the United States,
China, and Russia. The mediation offer
from China and Russia highlights its
global significance, highlighting the
intricate geopolitical dynamics in the
Middle East and the pressing
requirement for diplomatic resolutions
to avert additional instability and
promote regional stability.
Impacts and Worldwide
Responses:
The missile exchange between Iran
and Pakistan has sparked a rapid global
response, reaching far beyond bilateral
implications to influence global
perceptions and alliances. The offer of
mediation from China and Russia, along
with the United Nations expressing deep
concern, highlights the importance of
nations working together and
prioritising regional stability. This
incident highlights the vulnerabilities in
both countries, underscoring the
pressing need for diplomatic solutions to
avoid further escalation. Internationally,
there has been a strain on diplomatic
relations as India accuses Pakistan of
regional terrorism and the United States
holds Iran responsible for recklessness.
The mediation offers from China and
Russia highlight their dedication to
promoting regional peace, as the United
Nations emphasises the need for
restraint. The exchange has unintended
consequences that bring to light how it
enables both nations to bypass legal and
human rights aspects through
coordinated operations, which presents
challenges for regulatory bodies.
An Exciting Path Ahead:
Collaborative Anti-Terrorism
Initiative:
One possible solution to tackle the
challenges of the ever-changing border
area between Iran and Pakistan is to
create a collaborative force dedicated to
combating terrorism and militancy. This
collaborative initiative aims to address
any lingering doubts, encourage
increased collaboration, and establish a
well-organized structure for promoting
regional stability.
The proposed force would receive
funding and personnel from both
nations, highlighting their collaborative
effort to address non-state actors and
ensure security in the border region. The
rotational command structure fosters a
sense of equality and trust, allowing for
independent operations within clearly
defined boundaries.
By adopting a dynamic and innovative
approach, the establishment of this
collaborative force has the potential to
establish a model for effectively
managing borders across the world and
play a significant role in mitigating
tensions in regions prone to conflicts. By
examining past border skirmishes and
recent missile exchanges, it becomes
clear that a comprehensive strategy is
necessary, going beyond mere reactive
measures.
Conclusion:
The recent missile exchange between
Iran and Pakistan serves as a powerful
reminder of the complex challenges that
exist within their relationship. By
examining the incident from a
geopolitical perspective and recognising
the important role of external actors, we
can gain a deeper understanding of the
complexities at play. In order to foster a
sustainable and peaceful coexistence, it
is crucial to go beyond reactive security
measures and adopt a proactive,
diplomatic, and collaborative approach.
This approach should focus on not only
resolving immediate tensions but also
addressing historical grievances while
taking into account the intricate
geopolitical landscape in the Middle
East.
Argentinian Tango
of Change: The Milei
Maneuver in the
2023 Elections
T he Argentine Republic, which has
faced the challenges of numerous
dictatorship regimes throughout
the 20th century, has recently conducted
its 2023 general elections. In Argentina,
the elections took place in two rounds.
The first round was held on October
22nd, followed by the second round on
November 19th. In a historic outcome,
Javier Milei, a right-wing libertarian,
emerged as the new president with an
impressive 55.7% of the votes. This vic-
tory marks a significant milestone since
the country's transition to democracy.
President Javier Milei, known for his
unconventional beliefs and energetic
persona, gained a reputation among his
supporters for his passionate demeanor
and distinctive hairstyle. His over-
whelming win, capturing nearly 56% of
the votes, has been described as a signifi-
cant shift in the political landscape,
attributed to his far-right solid beliefs
and relative newcomer status in politics.
Why can an economist, author, and
someone who challenges conventional
politics embody the spirit of transforma-
tion? This is all thanks to the enthusias-
tic backing of the younger generation,
especially young men.
An Overview of the Election:
In the 2023 general elections, two
presidential candidates stood out for
their stark differences. Sergio Massa, a
51-year-old candidate of the Union for
the Homeland coalition, is the face of the
Renewable Front. This Peronist political
party embraces the ideas of former presi-
dent and military commander Juan
Peron. In the race was 53-year-old Milei,
a candidate of the Freedom Advance
Party who is well-known for his outspo-
ken views and criticism of Argentina’s
political culture. He has even expressed
strong opinions about Pope Francis,
referring to him as a negative influence
on Earth. Amidst Argentina's challeng-
ing economic situation, Millie's bold
campaign promises proved instrumental
in bringing down the previous govern-
ment. These promises included adopting
the US dollar as the national currency,
eliminating the central bank, reducing
government spending by 15% of GDP,
cutting back on public health expendi-
ture, and privatizing certain state com-
panies.
Who is Javier Milei?:
Javier Milei, a 53-year-old anarcho-
capitalist libertarian who ventured into
politics in 2020 intending to disrupt the
system, is frequently likened to Donald
Trump and Boris Johnson. Surprisingly,
three years later, the eccentric TV pundit
decided to run for the presidency and
managed to secure a resounding victory
with a significant majority.
Aside from his controversial reputation
and high-profile media appearances,
who exactly is Javier Milei? He is an
individual who has a deep passion for
music, particularly opera and has
actively pursued his love for singing as
the lead vocalist of the Rolling Stones
cover band Everest during his formative
years. In addition, he served as a
custodian for the Chacarita Juniors
Association Football team until 1989.
Upon witnessing the rampant
hyperinflation that plagued Argentina at
the time, he was inspired to pursue a
career in economics. While obtaining his
economics degree from the University of
Belgrano, Milei closely observed the
collapse of the Argentinian exchange
rate. In addition, he earned two Master's
degrees from the Instituto de Desarrollo
Económico y Social and the Torcuato di
Tella University. Milei has been teaching
macroeconomics, the economics of
growth, microeconomics, and
Mathematics to economists for more
than two decades. In addition, he
maintained a prominent presence on
television as the most sought-after
economist for interviews, as per the 2018
ranking by Ejes. He gained recognition
by passionately defending his beliefs and
ideas, often resorting to insults, foul
language, and aggressive rhetoric
against his rivals. However, that's
precisely why he became so popular.
Diana Mondino, an economist on Milei's
team, once said that if Javier had a neat
hairstyle and didn't get angry, people
wouldn't have invited him to speak.
Are Milei's Promises Just a Hoax:
Milei's victory in Argentina marked a
bold departure from the status quo, as he
wasted no time in asserting his agenda
for change. With inflation at an alarming
138%, he swiftly outlined his plans for
immediate action, including replacing
the national currency with the US dollar
and implementing austerity measures
such as budget cuts and privatizations.
Despite facing challenges such as a
significant budget deficit and
outstanding debts to international
creditors, Milei remained resolute in his
commitment to fiscal reform. However,
his unyielding stance on controversial
issues like abortion rights and climate
change, along with his opposition to
socialism, polarized opinions both
domestically and internationally.
Conclusion:
According to various experts, Milei
may need help implementing his more
controversial proposals due to his party's
limited control in Argentina's lower
house (38 out of 257 seats) and the
Senate (8 out of 72 seats). However, his
supporters argue that he is the only one
capable of shaking up the stagnant
political landscape and addressing the
long-standing economic challenges
plaguing South America's second-
largest economy for years. As Argentina
embarks on a new journey under the
leadership of Javier Milei, the future
ahead is filled with unknown
possibilities. The President's manifesto
holds excellent promise for
transformation but has practical
challenges that must be addressed in
governance. Only time will reveal
whether Milei's presidency will be the
driving force behind the change the
country desires or a captivating chapter
in Argentina's vibrant political history.
MARCH’24 • 7

projects. President Erdogan's statement
underscores the impact on diplomatic
relations and the need to address these
challenges for the corridor's successful
implementation.
Exploring Potential Challenges for
Pakistan :
Pakistan may face several issues and
challenges due to the IMEC, given the
competitive nature of India and China.
IMEC: A Challenger to China's BRI - Unveiling Pakistan's participation in the China-
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has
A
series of legislative and institu-
tional changes have been imple-
mented in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
(KP) to tackle the persistent challenge of
drug abuse and trafficking and to curb
this menace. This essay offers a compre-
hensive analysis of the development of
initiatives aimed at addressing drug-
related problems, covering both the
period before and after the 18th Amend-
ment. We aim to comprehensively
understand the intricate nature of tack-
ling drug abuse in KP by analyzing the

the Origins and Global Impact given the country control over important
land, affecting India's relations with
European nations and the Middle East.
relevant legislative frameworks and
institutional mechanisms. The Drug Act
of 1940 marked the start of Pakistan's
efforts to regulate drug-related activi-

T The India-Middle East-Europe

Economic Corridor (IMEC),
emerging as a competitor to
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),
gained traction after the September
2023 G20 summit. This corridor, crucial
for linking India, the Arabian Gulf, and
Europe, carries significant economic and
strategic weight, potentially reshaping
global trade dynamics. Assessing its
impact on Pakistan is vital, considering
its potential to challenge the China-
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
However, IMEC's progress faced a set-
back post the Israel-Palestine conflict in
October 2023, complicating political
and economic relations in the region.
Despite its geopolitical implications,
IMEC still lacks substantial investments
needed for its development.
The Importance of IMEC in the
Economy and Strategy:
The Memorandum of Understand-
ing (MOU) signed during the G20 sum-
mit outlines ambitious energy and secu-
rity goals for European nations, allowing
the United States to reshape its national
security objectives, focusing on regional
and economic integration. Two key pro-
posals emerged from the summit: the
East Corridor, crucial for linking India to
the Arabian Gulf, and the North Corri-
dor, aiming to connect the Arabian Gulf
to Europe. The UAE-Saudi Arabia-
Amman railway network in the Northern
Corridor is a significant infrastructural
project facilitating the transportation of
goods and services between Europe,
India, the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and
Saudi Arabia. This project also enhances
digital connectivity and infrastructure to
support a clean hydrogen initiative. The
International Middle East Corridor
(IMEC) aims to strengthen technology
and energy partnerships among partici-
pating nations, particularly emphasizing
the robust collaboration between India
and Israel in military and technological
programs. The Adani Group's acquisi-
tion of the Haifa Port signifies a stronger
connection between India, Europe, and
the Middle East, offering exciting possi-
bilities for Europe to enhance economic
connections and reduce reliance on
China. IMEC's implementation could
impact global trade dynamics and strate-
gically react to China's increasing global
aspirations. The Gulf states, part of the
corridor, view IMEC as an opportunity to
strengthen connections and maintain a
geopolitical and economic balance in
their relationships with China, the West,
and Russia, potentially reshaping global
production networks.
Challenges in Implementing IMEC:
The Israel-Palestine war has
introduced complexities to the
initiatives planned under the
International Middle East Corridor
(IMEC), affecting efforts to establish
economic and political ties between
Israel and Middle Eastern nations. The
conflict has postponed a multilateral
meeting involving India, Israel, the UAE,
and the U.S. Amidst rising tensions, the
IMEC nations missed the opportunity to
formulate an action plan within the
stipulated sixty-day period, highlighting
the evolving nature of diplomatic
relations. Although projects like the
eastern and northern corridors have
been announced, the lack of consensus
on funding, potentially reaching $20
billion, underscores the need for clarity
in IMEC's financing. Geopolitical
challenges may impede the IMEC's
implementation, with tensions between
nations such as India and Pakistan,
Saudi Arabia and Iran, and ongoing
conflicts in Yemen and Syria. Iran's
strategic position near the Strait of
Hormuz poses additional hurdles. While
the IMEC aims to counterbalance
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),
concerns arise about China diverting
investments, challenging the corridor's
stability. European worries about Russia
and China's interests influencing
infrastructural projects in the Middle
East emphasize the importance of
building trust among the participating
nations. The exclusion of regional actors
like Turkey, Oman, and Iraq raises the
potential for emerging alternative
By hindering Pakistan's geopolitical
influence in the region, the IMEC may
allow India to surpass its neighbor. If
this corridor becomes a prominent
transportation route, it could potentially
lead to regional isolation for Pakistan,
which may intensify as time passes.
Pakistan's economy is currently facing
significant challenges, and the proposed
initiatives of the IMEC could potentially
exacerbate the existing trade and
investment difficulties. Given its
established aims and objectives with
substantial powers such as the U.S. and
the European Union, the corridor's
strategic interests can threaten
Pakistan's foreign policy and regional
relations. IMEC's affiliated projects
serve as a response to China's BRI. China
and Pakistan share a strong bond of
friendship. This situation could strain
Pakistan's relationship with the IMEC,
which may negatively affect the nation's
diplomatic and regional ties. To avoid
these possible challenges, Pakistan
should develop a carefully crafted
strategy to effectively connect with the
emerging economic networks brought
about by IMEC. It could also consider
implementing fresh policies to enhance
the country's regional, economic, and
trade connections to protect against any
potential hostilities from IMEC.
Conclusion :
IMEC holds immense importance for
enhancing strategic and economic ties
among participating nations, fostering
collaboration and connectivity across
the Persian Gulf, Asia, and Europe,
aligning with the EU's Indo-Pacific
strategy. It aims to expand economic
relationships, potentially yielding
significant regional and global benefits.
However, addressing challenges is
crucial for realizing its goals. Concerns
arise due to the influence of China and
Russia, along with geopolitical tensions
like the Indo-Pakistani dispute and the
Saudi-Iran rivalry. Pakistan must
reassess and tackle potential challenges
to navigate regional complexities
effectively.
ties. This legislation played a crucial role
in regulating the import, export, and
distribution of drugs in the subcontinent
during the early post-independence
period. However, as technology and sci-
entific methodologies advanced, it
became clear that the existing legislation
required modifications to tackle the
emerging challenges effectively.
Pre-18th Amendment: The
Evolution of Drug Legislation:
Before the 18th Amendment, drug
legislation in Pakistan went through
substantial transformations. Starting
with the Drug Act of 1940, which regu-
lated drug-related activities post-
independence, the legislation was later
modified to tackle emerging challenges.
Several necessary regulations were put
in place to ensure the proper licensing,
registration, and advertising of drugs.
These rules provided a clear framework
for the industry to operate within. Addi-
tionally, measures were taken to control
the import and export of drugs, ensuring
that cross-border movement was closely
monitored. Furthermore, regulations
were implemented to improve consumer
safety and transparency by enhancing
drug labeling and packing requirements.
In 1976, the Drug Act brought about sig-
nificant changes, making it illegal to sell
drugs on the streets without the neces-
sary licenses. Additionally, it established
a drug testing facility and a specialized
drug court. In contrast to the Drug Act of
1940, significant improvements were
made, such as broadening investigative
powers and the authorization for federal
and provincial governments to designate
inspectors for drug-related investiga-
tions. The Anti-Narcotics Force Act of
1997 has been instrumental in combat-
ing the demand and supply of illicit
drugs, mainly from Afghanistan and
Iran. The Anti-Narcotics Force has been
entrusted with various responsibilities,
including investigation, asset tracing,
coordination, training, and interna-
tional cooperation.
From 1940 to Now: Analyzing KP's Battle Against
Drug Abuse Through Legislation
Post-18th Amendment: Shifting
Powers and Legislative Reforms:
The implementation of targeted
drug regulations, bolstered by provincial
initiatives, has significantly strength-
ened efforts to combat the drug problem
in Pakistan. Provincial regulations, such
as the Punjab Drug Rules of 2007, Sindh
Drug Rules of 2010, Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Drug Rules of 2017,
and Balochistan Drug Rules of 2018,
complement the regulatory framework
set by the Drug Regulatory Authority of
Pakistan (DRAP). The Anti-Narcotics
Act of 2019, replacing the Control of Nar-
cotic Substances Act of 1997, decentral-
izes anti-narcotic powers to the provin-
cial level in line with the principles of the
18th Amendment.
Overcoming Challenges and
Shaping the Future:
Despite these legislative efforts, the
issue of drug abuse continues to pose a
persistent challenge in KP. To gain a
comprehensive understanding of the
current scenario, it is essential to analyze
drug user surveys and assess the societal
consequences of drug abuse. The most
recent drug user survey in Pakistan,
conducted by the United Nations Office
on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 2013,
revealed concerning trends. The report
emphasized the significant issue of drug
dependence, particularly among opioid
users in KP and Balochistan. The high
rate of drug use in KP, with 10.9% of the
population having used illicit drugs in
2012, highlights the significant nature of
the problem. Studies, such as Ahmad et
al. (2020), highlight a concerning rise in
drug use among students, indicating a
shift in age demographics. Flawed
societal structures and unrealistic
expectations placed on children have
contributed to this shift, leading them to
turn to drugs as a coping mechanism for
issues at home and educational
pressures.
Conclusion:
Over time, changes in laws and
advancements in institutions have
significantly impacted Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa's fight against the drug
problem. In the era before the 18th
Amendment, essential regulations and
institutions were implemented.
However, after the 18th Amendment,
powers were decentralized, and
provincial initiatives emerged. Despite
these ongoing efforts, challenges
continue to persist, especially when it
comes to tackling the underlying societal
causes of drug abuse. The age
demographics are shifting, and more
students are turning to drugs. This
highlights the importance of a
comprehensive approach combining
regulatory measures with initiatives
focused on improving societal well-
being. To effectively combat the drug
menace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it is
crucial to prioritize a comprehensive
understanding of the societal challenges
contributing to drug abuse. This can be
achieved through fostering a
collaborative approach between
legislation, law enforcement, and social
welfare. By doing so, future strategies
can be more creative and active in
addressing this issue.

8 • MARCH’24 MARCH’24 • 9
E stablished in 1923, the Interna-
tional Criminal Police Organiza-
tion (INTERPOL) is an inter-
governmental association that addresses
global crimes through enhanced cooper-
ation among nations. It is a global con-
duit between law enforcement agencies,
fostering collaboration to establish a
secure and crime-free global environ-
ment. Despite lacking its police force,
INTERPOL plays a pivotal role as a facil-
itator, connecting police agencies from
various countries. INTERPOL concen-
trates its efforts on three primary areas:
combating organized and emerging
crimes, addressing cybercrime, and
countering terrorism. As an administra-
tive force, it gathers and analyzes data
from countries worldwide, providing
nations with valuable insights to combat
cybercrimes, terrorism, and other
emerging offenses. The organization's
database includes fingerprints, DNA
samples, photographs, lists of most-
wanted individuals, travel histories, and
relevant documents. Additionally,
INTERPOL maintains an Incident Rapid
Response Force, which is promptly
deployed after an incident and conducts
investigations upon the request of
involved states. The organization issues
various notices based on the severity and
nature of crimes and the offender's his-
tory. Red notices signal an immediate
arrest for individuals with the most-
wanted status, yellow notices aid in
locating missing persons, blue notices
seek additional information, black
notices pertain to unidentified bodies,
purple notices focus on modus operandi,
green notices alert to the potential recur-
rence of a crime, and orange notices are
issued in the presence of a threat to pub-
lic safety and societal peace. Notably,
INTERPOL also releases United Nations
notices, a specialized form of notice
directed against individuals listed on the
United Nations Security Council's hit
list.
Significance of INTERPOL in
Addressing Global Crime
Challenges:
As globalization surged in the twen-
tieth century, it brought unprecedented
connectivity opportunities across sec-
tors. However, alongside these benefits
emerged a darker side: a surge in crimi-
nal activities spanning the globe. These
transnational interactions paved the way
for a rise in various crimes, including
terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking,
and human trafficking. Digitalization
further exacerbated the situation, intro-
ducing a plethora of cybercrimes, scams,
and online frauds. The widespread and
diverse nature of these crimes presents a
formidable challenge for individual
states to combat effectively. In the first
10 • MARCH’24
The Evolution of INTERPOL: Bridging Nations in the Fight Against Transnational Crimes
half of 2021 alone, global ransomware
attacks surged by 151%, with each orga-
nization facing an average of 270
cyberattacks.
Functioning Of INTERPOL :
INTERPOL operates as a global
coalition comprising 195 member states,
each hosting a National Central Bureau
within its territory. The organization's
headquarters are situated in Lyon,
France. It is structured around two pri-
mary governing bodies: the General
Assembly and the Executive Committee.
The General Assembly serves as the apex
decision-making authority within
INTERPOL, with all 195 member states
holding equal representation, each pos-
sessing one vote. Important decisions
are made through the formulation of
resolutions, which are then subject to a
vote by member states. Resolutions gar-
nering two-thirds majority support are
adopted. Additionally, the General
Assembly oversees the election of a pres-
ident and members of the Executive Com-
mittee. The Executive Committee, com-
posed of 13 members, includes a presi-
dent, three vice presidents, and nine
delegates. The president serves four
years, while vice presidents and dele-
gates hold office for three years.
Historical Evolution of INTERPOL:
The rise in globalization in the 20th
century gave criminal organizations and
fugitives new ways to evade justice.
Recognizing this challenge, the
International Criminal Police Congress
convened in Monaco in 1914, bringing
together representatives from 21 states.
During this congress, 12 principles were
established, encompassing crime
identification, investigation techniques,
and an international standard for
forensic data collection. These principles
laid the groundwork for the organization
that would later become INTERPOL.
However, the outbreak of World War I in
1914 disrupted this promising initiative,
delaying progress. A renewed effort was
made in 1922, which, unfortunately,
failed. Despite this, President Johannes
Schober of the Vienna police
organization led a cooperative effort by
organizing the second International
Criminal Police Congress in Vienna,
which attracted participants from 22
states. By 1938, the organization had
grown significantly with the
participation of 58 states, including
notable additions such as the United
Kingdom and the United States.
However, the rise of Nazi Hitler and the
subsequent French occupation of
Austria in 1938 resulted in INTERPOL
falling under Nazi control. Following the
conclusion of World War II, France, the
United Kingdom, Belgium, and
Scandinavia collaborated to relocate the
organization's headquarters from
Monaco to Saint-Cloud in France.
Eventually, in 1989, the headquarters
found its current home in Lyon, marking
a pivotal chapter in INTERPOL's
historical journey.
INTERPOL's Impact on International
Crime Resolution:
A tragic explosion at a Karachi fac-
tory in 2012 resulted in around 300
deaths, sparking public outcry and
demands for a thorough investigation
into alleged negligence by the factory
owners. Subsequent findings by a joint
investigation agency implicated a politi-
cal party known for corruption, with
Rehman Bhola identified as the primary
suspect. Bhola fled the country but was
later apprehended in Thailand with the
assistance of INTERPOL and extradited
to Pakistan. He was subsequently sen-
tenced to death by the Pakistan Supreme
Court. While this case highlights INTER-
POL's effectiveness in apprehending
criminals, concerns have been raised
about its susceptibility to political
manipulation, as exemplified by Califor-
nia-based Russian businessman Alexay
Kharis, who accused the organization of
being exploited for personal and political
motives in corruption cases involving
high-ranking officials.
Conclusion:
Established in 1923, INTERPOL
serves as a crucial inter-governmental
organization, uniting 195 member states
to combat transnational crimes. With a
focus on organized crimes, cybercrimes,
and terrorism, it facilitates global
collaboration among diverse law
enforcement agencies. High-profile
cases like the Baldia Town Factory
Explosion demonstrate its effectiveness
in coordinating international efforts to
apprehend criminals. Despite criticism
from figures like Alexay Kharis,
INTERPOL remains committed to
impartiality and integrity, undergoing
scrutiny to maintain its reputation. As
global crime evolves, INTERPOL adapts
to emerging threats, crucial for fostering
a secure global environment.
Colonialism Is Alive and Well:
Dissecting the P5 and UNSC
C
olonialism did not end with the
dissolution of colonial govern-
ments. It still persists in one form
or another. Directly situated here is the
“benevolence” of the Global North lead-
ers to direct countries of the Global
South to govern according to how they
choose. Even though overt, direct colo-
nisation may have decreased, the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC), which
allows the hegemony of five nations to
perpetuate coloniality in the "post"-
colonial world, is one example of an
institution that has allowed the legacies
of colonial structures, power dynamics,
and inherent inequalities to endure. But
first, the premise of our argument must
be established:
The Origins of the UNSC :
Following World War II, five
nations—China, France, the Russian
Federation, the United Kingdom, and
the United States—four of which had
p r e v i o u s l y b e e n c o l o n i a l p o w-
ers—worked together to create the
United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
as an institution of global governance to
uphold peace and security internation-
ally, avert conflicts, and coordinate coor-
dinated responses to ensure stability
throughout the world.
They were among the five perma-
nent members of the UNSC who were
given the sole veto power after serving in
the Allied forces during World War II.
The veto power, which allows any one of
them to stop the adoption of any "sub-
stantive" draft Council resolution,
regardless of its level of international
support, was first intended as a tool to
maintain a balance of power in the global
arena and prevent unilateral actions.
However, it has since developed into a
mechanism that serves the interests of
the powerful.
In this sense, the P5's ability to stra-
tegically use a veto to further their
respective foreign policy goals and
national interests illustrates how colo-
nial practices are still in place, albeit
more covertly.
UNSC's Institutionalisation as the
P5's hegemon :
Hegemony "implies the
institutionalisation of privilege, conse-
quent inequality in the distributions of
various values, and the injustices inher-
ent in inequality," as well as "the domi-
nation of the weak by the strong, the
many by the few." Puchala's observa-
tions regarding the systematic
institutionalisation of the Security Coun-
cil of the United Nations as the P5
hegemon, wherein the decisions and
deeds of these five members determine
the global agenda, are accurate.
Notwithstanding the geopolitical
upheavals and the post-World War II
rise of colonies as sovereign states, the
permanent standing and veto power of
the Permanent Five in the UN Security
Council served as a means by which the
former colonial powers maintained their
sway over international affairs. This
illustrates the evolution of hegemony
from overt colonisation to a more subtle
and long-lasting kind of dominance and
coloniality in the global sphere. Paradox-
ically, the UNSC has evolved into a venue
where the strategic objectives of a small
number of people wield disproportion-
ate power.
The P5 countries' influence over the
C o u n c i l ' s d e c i s i o n s a n d r e s o l u-
tions—whether in maintaining alliances,
imposing sanctions, engaging in selec-
tive intervention, or refraining from
actions that could upset geopolitical
dynamics—that aim to safeguard these
MARCH’24 • 11
five countries' strategic interests is the
main cause of the Council's inability to
stop genocides, end protracted conflicts,
and handle humanitarian crises. Its
capacity to handle disputes impartially,
uphold the credibility required for suc-
cessful conflict resolution, and carry out
its mandate to preserve international
peace and security are all jeopardised by
this.
Israeli Takeover (1948–Present) :
Resolution 181, also referred to as
the Partition Plan, was adopted by the
UN in 1947 and authorised the partition
of the colonial British Mandate of Pales-
tine into Arab and Jewish states, thereby
approving the Israeli occupation of Pal-
estine. With the support of the West,
especially the United States, Israel's Zion-
ist ideology and settler colonialism since
its founding in 1948 have led to Arab-
Israeli wars, ongoing hostilities, dis-
placement, and ethnic cleansing of the
native Palestinian people. Currently,
over 85% of historic Palestine is under
Israeli control.
Since the start of Israel's ground
offensive on October 7, the Israeli mili-
tary has been attacking Gaza nonstop.
Since then, the attacks have killed about
24,000 Palestinian civilians, injured
over 60,000 others, displaced over 80%
of the 2.4 million people living in Gaza,
destroyed the entire city, and obstructed
access for humanitarian aid and assis-
tance to the Gaza strip.
As of December 18, the US had exer-
cised its veto power in the Security Coun-
cil 45 times since 1945 to shield Israel
from resolutions that would have jeopar-
dised its strategic partnership with the
country, its goals for foreign policy, and
its ability to maintain its influence glob-
ally. In the modern world, coloniality is
what keeps the conflict that colonisation
created alive.
UNSC decolonization :
A comprehensive reevaluation of
the United Nations Security Council's
structural framework is imperative in
order to achieve the goal of decoloniza-
tion. Experts on the subject, including
Hannah Ryder, Anna Baisch, and
Ovigwe Eguegu, argue in favour of elimi-
nating the permanent membership sta-
tus and replacing all 15 UNSC seats with
five-year terms that guarantee non-
regional open competition for each seat
while maintaining continuity and pre-
venting prolonged dominance.
Furthermore, they think that the
standards for responsibility and capabil-
ity should be transparently demon-
strated and rewarded, and veto-based
decision-making on behalf of others, as
the Security Council does, should be
12 • MARCH’24
earned. But such a grandiose decoloniza-
tion of the UNSC is unattainable because
the P5 would not consent to any changes
that would challenge their hegemony
and authority.
Conclusion :
The United Nations Security Coun-
cil (UNSC) is a prime example of how
colonisation continues to influence
international government. The UNSC's
structure, which is dominated by former
colonial nations, prevents significant
decolonization attempts and maintains
power disparities. As demonstrated by
current disputes like the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict, the veto power used
by its permanent members undercuts
attempts towards equitable interna-
tional relations. Due to vested interests,
meaningful reform to overcome colonial
legacies is extremely difficult. Therefore,
it will need coordinated efforts to oppose
current power structures and advance
equality and justice as core values in
order to overcome colonialism in global
governance.
Pakistan's Seaports:
A Refresher On
Pakistan's Most
Important
Geographical Feature
T
he world has been shaped into a
global village through the estab-
lishment of connections between
continents through sea routes since
ancient times. The requirement for large
shipping vessels to have access to dock-
ing and other facilities grew daily. That is
the function of "seaports." In an effort to
promote connectivity and support trade
and commerce, these ports are located
close to coastal lines.
In order to continue with the discussion,
one must be able to differentiate
between "harbours" and "seaports." A
seaport is defined as a state's commercial
water facility that includes docks,
cranes, and infrastructure for handling
cargo in addition to warehouses for the
deterioration of the vessels. Seaports
serve as maritime hubs by facilitating the
movement of goods between domestic
and international markets. On the other
hand, a harbour provides a safe mooring
area where ships and other waterborne
vessels can secure themselves.
Pakistan's Seaports :
Pakistan benefits from both military
and economic leverage due to its geo-
graphic location. Pakistan, which has a
coastline spanning 1064 kilometres, has
made use of its major maritime hubs to
negotiate strategic alliances with China
and to stimulate trade with Central Asian
landlocked nations.
The following provides a thorough
examination of Pakistan's seven princi-
pal seaports:
Karachi Port and Harbour
Karachi is referred to in headlines
all over the world as "the economic hub
of Pakistan" and the "City of Lights," but
many people don't know why. One of the
oldest seaports in all of South Asia,
"Karachi Port and Harbour" predates
Pakistan by a long margin. More specifi-
cally, some vague recollections of its ori-
gin date to the Mughal era in 1557, when
a conserved pamphlet mentioned the
Karachi Port as a resting place for Turk-
ish traders and tourists. This port served
as a vital seaborne route during British
colonial rule.
Trade Volume :
Looking into trade, the port man-
ages about 60% of all imports and
exports from the nation. With 1.56 mil-
lion TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units)
and 65.62 million tonnes of cargo han-
dled annually, Karachi Port is a signifi-
cant hub of activity.
Geographical Dimensions :
The seaport is 16 metres deep in its
anchorage and is situated atop 32 kilo-
metres of docks and wharves. Further-
more, 8 wharves and 41 berths are used
by arriving and departing commercial
vessels.
The Karachi Port provides space for
the building and repair of military and
commercial ships by utilising its harbour
capabilities. In addition, the harbour
offers amenities like steel handling facil-
ities, construction complexes, and dry
docks. The ports' close proximity to the
Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz is
another significant factor that adds to
their significance. Pakistan has been
striving to relieve the strain and conges-
tion at the Karachi Port since its estab-
lishment, which has planted the seeds
for the development of additional sea-
ports along the economically favourable
coastline.
Gwadar Seaport
The Gwadar Seaport in Pakistan,
established recently to bolster commer-
cial status and foster regional prosperity,
covers 2,292 acres and is the world's
deepest seaport. Opened in 2016 as part
of the China-Pakistan Economic Corri-
dor (CPEC), it's managed by the Gwadar
Port Authority (GPA), with operational
control leased to China's COPHC until
2059. Strategically located at the inter-
section of Balochistan, it connects to the
Belt and Road and Maritime Silk Road,
supporting projects like CPEC and Pak-
Afghan trade. Its proximity to the Gulf of
Oman and the Strait of Hormuz facili-
tates expansion initiatives, including the
Gwadar Special Economic Zone and a
floating LNG facility. Plans include con-
necting the port to the Khunjerab rail-
way for commuter routes with nearby
industrial hubs.
Muhammad Bin Qasim Sea-
port
The Muhammad Bin Qasim Seaport
in Pakistan, established in Karachi in
1890, is the second busiest port in the
country. Handling about 35% of Paki-
stan's maritime traffic, it boasts impres-
sive statistics with 1,500 port calls annu-
ally, 700,000 TEUs of containers, and
16.6 million tonnes of cargo handled.
Spanning 50 square kilometers, it sup-
ports both domestic and international
shipping lines and is strategically located
near industrial areas. With 273 indus-
trial units and proximity to the customs
office, it facilitates import/export activi-
ties. The port is divided into three pri-
mary zones for administration and is
undergoing modernization initiatives by
the Port Qasim Authority (PQA), includ-
ing the development of new terminals for
liquid cargo, containers, oil, and a steel
jetty.
Keti Bandar Seaport
The Pakistan Seaport in Keti
Bandar, the state's oldest port, is located
in the Thatta district, just four hours'
drive from Karachi. Situated next to the
Indus River, it is an extension of the his-
toric port of Debal near Manora island.
With its proximity to the N-10 national
highway, it offers enhanced accessibility
for import/export activities, particularly
as part of CPEC. Surrounding towns like
Gharo and Mirpur Sakro benefit eco-
nomically from the port, relying on its
fishing operations. Fish from the Ara-
bian Sea is sold at quayside markets,
contributing to socioeconomic
sustainability in the region.
Ormara Seaport
The Pakistan Seaport of Ormara,
located along the Makran coast between
Karachi and Gwadar, holds both naval
and commercial significance. Operating
since ancient times, it plays a crucial role
in the nation's fishing sector and con-
nects to the N-10 highway for enhanced
accessibility. Home to Pakistan's sec-
ond-largest naval base, the Jinnah naval
base, Ormara has seen significant pros-
perity and economic advancement. The
presence of a cadet college contributes to
the port's financial growth. Government
initiatives aim to transform Ormara into
a thriving strategic hub by 2030.
Pasni Port
The Pasni Port, also known as the
Pakistan Seaport, is a significant loca-
tion on the Makran coast, though
smaller in size compared to others. Man-
aged by Pakistan's Federal Secretary for
Maritime Affairs and the Balochistan
Port Authority, it operates efficiently,
supporting both trade and fishing activi-
ties. Modern amenities address eco-
nomic and sustenance needs, while the
Balochistan Sea Fisheries Act ensures
marine life and local livelihood protec-
tion. A considerable portion of exports
serves Karachi and Turbat, with produce
repackaged to meet EU standards.
Accredited by the Pasni naval base, the
port benefits from its strategic location
near key thoroughfares and air bases,
facilitating connectivity to Pasni airport
and the N-10 highway.
Conclusion :
Pakistan has many opportunities to
exercise its maritime potential but
unfortunately, has been suffering from a
lack of progress. With soaring inflation
and deteriorating political conditions,
the country’s trade and commerce have
been suffering in the highly competitive
global import/export industry. Navigat-
ing through high tides and still seas, Paki-
stan’s numerous ports have proved to be
a commendable asset that can further
thrive and flourish if the concerned
authorities pay their due attention to its
development.
MARCH’24 • 13
W
hen one looks at Punjab, it is
very easy to think that the rest
of Pakistan’s major cities are
the same. It is, infact, not so. In terms of
poverty, impoverishment and disenfran-
chisement, Balochistan has the dubious
distinction of having all three. It is not
the fault of the people, but rather
decades of exploitation and political
turmoils have left their mark on this prov-
ince. Rich in natural resources, home to
valuable seaports and scenic valleys, the
people of Balochistan are held hostage
by the state of their governance, and the
rampant disregard of their basic human
rights.
The rise of the BLA (Baloch Liberation
Movement) is often cited as being the
cause of political and civil unrest. How-
ever, there is always a catalyst behind a
reaction. For the BLA, the catalyst is pov-
erty, mismanaged state policies and
insignficance of the people of
Balochistan. Let us dissect objectively
the many ills that ail it.
Background: :
The largest province in terms of area
in Pakistan, Balochistan, was granted its
own province status in 1970. Following
the dissolution of the One Unit
Programme,was the reorganization of
the provinces of Pakistan by the central
Pakistani government, the President of
Pakistan issued an order on March 30,
1970, creating the Provincial Assembly
of Balochistan.
Beginning of Baloch movement :
Separatists from the Baloch region
opposed joining Pakistan. Their move-
ment, which was fighting for their own
country, began to pick up steam in the
1970s. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the country's
president at the time, gave the order for
the armed forces to put an end to the
movement. The military operation ran
from 1973 to 1977, a total of 4 long years.
An estimated 16,000 innocent civilians
14 • MARCH’24
lost their lives as a result. Three thou-
sand Pakistani soldiers and about five
thousand Baloch separatists perished
Baloch Isolation :
Following this procedure, the move-
ment calmed down for a while before
picking back up steam in the years that
followed. The Baloch people felt cut off,
especially the separatist Baloch people.
Since then, the iron hand dealt by the
Pakistan Army and FC Rangers has
resulted in violent attacks by separatists.
Political Difficulties:
Balochistan's political system has
historically been a contentious topic.
The general consensus is that
Balochistani elected officials are prod-
ucts of the establishment. They are cho-
sen by those in positions of authority
rather than being elected by the general
public. In Balochistan, there has long
been a pattern of a coalition government
failing to provide for the basic needs of
the populace. There are countless issues
that Baloch residents deal with in each
and every town and city in the province.
Parties in politics rise to power in order
to enrich themselves and enrich those
close to them. The ruling class does not
provide basic amenities to the average
man on the street, nor do they uphold his
fundamental rights.
Baloch representative in PNA:
Members of the Pakistani National
Assembly who represent Balochistan are
also essential to the establishment of the
federal government. Despite having 16
members from Balochistan, the govern-
ment views them as trump cards. The
PMLN and PPP have recently made
developments that highlight the signifi-
cance of these 16 members. On Novem-
ber 14, when PMLN president Mian
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif visited
Balochistan, nearly thirty provincial and
The Political
Turmoils of
Balochistan
national members joined the party. In an
effort to win over seat holders to their
political agenda, PPP leadership con-
vened in Balochistan at the end of
November. As a result, about a dozen
new members joined the PPP party. Join-
ing parties was not motivated by a sense
of affinity or resonance with party mani-
festos; rather, it was done purely to
increase one's own chances of winning
elections.
No Resources to Mine
Resources:
Resources abound in Balochistan,
including gold, coal, chromite, oil, and
natural gas. Baloch citizens have the first
and primary claim to these resources,
followed by the remaining Pakistani
provinces. However, there has been no
major headway in mining these
resources, and whatever projects were
undertaken became the focus of contro-
versy.
Even though the Baloch live atop
literal and metaphorical goldmines, they
nevertheless lead miserable lives. They
lack access to basic amenities like gas
and electricity connections, clean drink-
ing water, wholesome food, schools and
hospitals. Balochistan has an abundance
of gold reserves, but there are still inex-
plicably conflicting realities there, such
as the lack of access to clean drinking
water.
The Reko Diq Mining Debacle
The planned Reko Diq Mine is
located near the town of Reko Diq in
Balochistan's Chagai District. The prov-
ince of Balochistan owns 25% of Reko
Diq, the three federal state-owned enter-
prises own 25%, and the Barrick Com-
pany owns 50%. With roughly 5.9 billion
tonnes of gold and copper reserves, Reko
Diq is among the world's largest produc-
ers.
The Reko Diq dispute involves the
Pakistani government, local Balochistan
authorities, and Tethyan Copper Com-
pany (TCC), a joint venture between
Chile's Antofagasta PLC and Canada's
Barrick Gold Corporation.
Tethyan Copper Company had
acquired exploration licenses for the
Reko Diq area in 2006. However, in
2011, the Pakistani government unex-
pectedly refused to grant a mining lease
to TCC and subsequently terminated the
company's licenses. This led to a series of
legal battles and arbitration proceed-
ings.
TCC filed a case against Pakistan at
the International Centre for Settlement
of Investment Disputes (ICSID), claim-
ing damages for the denial of mining
rights. In July 2019, the ICSID ruled in
favor of TCC and ordered Pakistan to pay
$5.8 billion in damages plus interest to
the company.
Enforced disappearances:
The problem of missing persons is
becoming more pressing by the minute.
In fake encounters, young people in
Balochistan are being murdered. Com-
pared to last year, there have been more
enforced disappearances in Balochistan
this year. People have been known to be
picked up by armed forces from their
homes, places of education, and public
areas, and then made to vanish without a
trace or explanation. The families of
these missing persons live their entire
lives traveling between police stations,
courts, and motor homes.
Protests in Islamabad:
A large crowd began a long march
from Turbat towards Islamabad, fed up
with the false encounters and the disap-
pearance of their loved ones. Families of
the missing people and women made up
the bulk of the attendees. They arrived in
Dera Ghazi Khan, a city that connects
Punjab and Balochistan, on Tuesday,
December 19. Leading the rally was Dr.
Mahrung Baloch, a Baloch human rights
activist. They demanded an end to forced
disappearances and fictitious encoun-
ters, as well as the safe return of their
loved ones. They claimed that social
activists, members of political student
organizations, or regular students in any
kind of educational setting are the vic-
tims of the forced disappearances.
As stated in Article 19 of the Consti-
tution, they have the right to speak out
against the wrongdoings of the state.
They draw attention to the key problems
they face every day. It is illegal for them
to display signs and banners advocating
for their fundamental rights. However,
the protesters were set upon by armed
policemen and were harassed, abused
and jailed.
Conclusion:
Balochistan faces political unrest,
socioeconomic disparities, and histori-
cal injustices, exacerbated by separatist
movements like the BLA. Political strife,
lack of representation, and human rights
violations impede development. While
projects like the Solarization Project
offer hope, fundamental changes in
resource management and governance
are crucial. To foster peace, the Pakistani
government must prioritize
Balochistan's issues and pursue inclu-
sive solutions.
Tech–age:
Establishing
women laws in
an AI world
T
here are renewed calls from ana-
lysts to promulgate laws for the
use of artificial intelligence, The
recent spat in cases where high profile
celebrities and the common woman were
targeted by AI fakes have raised massive
concerns over the ethical use of AI gener-
ated images. There is rising apprehen-
sion that improper regulation of these
technologies could do more harm than
good. In this sense, women are dispro-
portionately affected by the risks pre-
sented by AI.
Patriarchal Implications In An AI
World :
In the digital age, women face
heightened vulnerability due to inci-
dents like data breaches and AI-
generated media. In APAC nations, soci-
etal prejudices compound these chal-
lenges. Instances like Amazon's biased
hiring AI and Apple's credit card algo-
rithm discriminating against women
highlight how AI can exacerbate institu-
tionalized discrimination and roll back
progress in women's rights.
CEDAW and AI Discrimnation:
Incidents as situated above are
against anti-discrimination laws, specif-
ically the Convention on the Elimination
of All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women (CEDAW). According to
CEDAW, "discrimination" is defined as
"any distinction, exclusion, or restriction
made on the basis of sex which has the
effect or purpose of impairing or nullify-
MARCH’24 • 15
ing the recognition, enjoyment, or exer-
cise by women of their human rights and
fundamental freedoms in the political,
economic, social, cultural, civil, or any
other field, irrespective of their marital
status.”
Protecting women rights: :
According to this definition, AI sys-
tems that display prejudice towards
women effectively support societal
injustices and discrimination. Protect-
ing fundamental rights, particularly
those of women, becomes a difficult task
in the absence of a strong legal frame-
work that regulates the nexus of innova-
tion, ethics, and law and offers tools to
address these shortcomings in AI. Peo-
ple can use a person's voice or facial fea-
tures to create artificial intelligence (AI)-
generated fake images or videos, mostly
of women and frequently sexual in
nature. These can be used to bully, inflict
social embarrassment, show "masculin-
ity," sextort, or spread false information.
Such media is now called as “deepfake”
The Rise of Deep Fakes:
These "deepfakes," or phoney pho-
tos and videos, are mostly non-
consensual works of art that specifically
target women. Sensity AI's report states
that women made up 99 percent of the
non-consensual sexual deepfakes. Those
who have dared to speak out against this
kind of image-based sexual abuse,
including women, have themselves
become victims of it.
There are worries that the produc-
tion of deepfakes does not violate peo-
ple's data or privacy rights because it
does not qualify as the processing of "per-
sonal data'' of individuals. Some contend
that since the content generated by
deepfake AI technologies does not
belong to any actual person, the data
protection laws do not apply to the gov-
ernance of deepfakes. This is because the
deepfake would be able to be linked back
to the original person. Consequently, a
deepfake that can be connected to a spe-
cific person may be regarded as that per-
son's "personal data"; a deepfake that is
not authorized by that person therefore
breaches that person's rights to privacy
and data.
Psychological Trauma and Dis-
tress:
Women may experience severe psy-
chological trauma if non-consensual
sexual deepfakes featuring them are
produced and shared. Theoretically,
there is a strong correlation between
being drugged and violated and watch-
ing one's own pornographic deepfakes.
This supports AI's ability to continue
gender-based violence against women,
which has evolved into the contempo-
16 • MARCH’24
rary method of depriving women of their
sexual agency.
In addition to causing psychological
distress to the victim, sexual deepfakes
targeting women can have particularly
harmful consequences in developing
Southeast Asian nations like Pakistan,
where it is still common practice to kill
women in the name of "honour." Honour
crimes are illegal in the nation, but pre-
vailing cultural stereotypes frequently
justify these senseless acts, even clearing
people who have been accused of murder
under the pretext of honour.
AI Regulations: Need Of The
Hour:
The extensive repercussions result-
ing from breaches of personal informa-
tion and the misuse of generative AI to
create explicit deepfakes highlight the
necessity of comprehensive regulation of
AI in this area. The Lanzarote Conven-
tion and other international legal instru-
ments are in opposition to non-
consensual explicit deepfakes of
women.At the national level, various
nations have varied legal frameworks
addressing the matter; the majority
include overt sexual offences such as
deepfakes under their purview. How-
ever, there are other facets to the use of
AI other than sexual harassment
Quantitative and qualitative
effects to tech-enhancements:
Women are disproportionately
affected by the quantitative and qualita-
tive effects of technological change. A
large percentage of low-skilled and
labor-intensive jobs, which are at risk of
being replaced by automation and tech-
nological advancements, are currently
held by women. McKinsey and Company
projects that between 2016 and 2030,
15% of the world's workforce may lose
their jobs.
Socio-economic rights:
The economic and social rights of
women in the area would suffer greatly if
technology were to displace this sector.
As low-skilled and labor-intensive jobs
are phased out, women may find new
opportunities in traditionally male-
dominated job markets. Gender inequal-
ity cannot be automatically overcome by
technology, as women from
underrepresented groups must be able
to access and utilize technologies and
solutions that meet their needs. This is
largely dependent on the design of the
technology.
Although women are capable of
performing tasks that have historically
been performed by men, deeply rooted
societal prejudices and attitudes play a
decisive role in the movement of women
from low-skilled positions to roles that
were previously held exclusively by men.
Nevertheless, women now have more
access to jobs in traditionally male-
dominated fields thanks to online work
procurement via app-based platforms.
Women can find new career oppor-
tunities because of the flexibility that
comes with this type of work procure-
ment, but research by Barzilay and Ben
David reveals that there are large pay
differences between male and female
online workers. In addition, labour laws
are falling behind the changing labour
market due to the rapid pace of
digitization, which could be detrimental
to women's social and economic rights.
On the other hand, women may have
more work options in the technology
industry itself, which includes automa-
tion, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
In these sectors, they can find positions
as technicians, secretaries, or adminis-
trative support personnel.
Conclusion:
It is imperative that comprehensive
legal frameworks governing artificial
intelligence (AI) be established in the
context of women's rights. With the rise
of non-consensual deepfakes and dis-
criminating algorithms, women's vul-
nerabilities in an AI-driven society are
greater, thus strong safeguards are
needed. The Convention on the Elimina-
tion of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women (CEDAW) and other
recognised human rights documents
must serve as the cornerstones of efforts
to address these issues, and the socioeco-
nomic effects of technology improve-
ments must also be taken into account.
Gender-inclusive AI governance should
be prioritised, and stakeholders should
work together to reduce systemic biases,
empower women in growing employ-
ment markets, and create a more just
and equitable technical landscape