Pakistan

Democratic consolidation remains a challenge for Pakistan. The government has struggled to meet its economic reform targets, including on revenue generation and public service provision, which has contributed to eroding both trust in and public support for democracy and civilian rule. Meanwhile, the country has placed new limitations on civil society organizations, manifestations of extremism have led to increased militarization, corruption remains endemic, and gender-based violence and discrimination are still widespread.

CIPE has responded to the issues facing the country by focusing on addressing the institutional challenges to improving democratic governance in Pakistan. Among its many programs in Pakistan, CIPE strengthens the capacity of chambers and associations; works with women’s chambers on economic empowerment for women; supports think tanks that are acting as watchdogs for government accountability and transparency; gives associations and think tanks the tools to engage in dialogue with political leaders on needed policy reforms; and trains small and medium-sized enterprises in practical tools to resist corruption.