Written by Nazimuddin.
Pakistan is grappling with a significant challenge: a continuous rise in its population growth rate, as highlighted in the latest census report. Data from the 2017 census revealed a growth rate of 2.4 percent, which has since increased to 2.55 percent by 2023. This alarming trend emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat the various factors contributing to overpopulation in the country.
Numerous factors contribute to Pakistan’s overpopulation predicament, spanning socio-cultural and economic realms. Access to family planning services remains a significant obstacle, with a notable 17% unmet need for contraception despite a contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) of 34%. The persistence of unplanned fertility rates at 12% underscores the gaps in reproductive health services.
Societal pressures play a crucial role in driving the demand for children, evident in the ideal family size of 3.9 for women and 4.3 for men. Alarmingly, 30% of women discontinue contraceptive use due to the desire for more children, perpetuating the cycle of population growth. Cultural and religious beliefs, coupled with practices such as child marriage and labor, exacerbate the issue, along with factors like poverty, illiteracy, and low female labor force participation.
Pakistan must adopt a multifaceted strategy to address overpopulation effectively, drawing inspiration from successful models in other countries. This strategy should prioritize robust family planning programs aimed at reducing birth rates. Empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, ensuring comprehensive access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, and raising the legal age of marriage are pivotal steps.
Expanding access to modern contraceptives, engaging religious leaders to dispel misconceptions, providing pre-marital counseling, and advocating for birth spacing are integral components of this strategy. The ramifications of overpopulation extend beyond demographic concerns, impacting various sectors such as the economy, environment, education, and healthcare.
Economic challenges, including unemployment and poverty rates, are exacerbated by rapid population growth. Environmental degradation, inadequate waste management, and heightened resource demand strain the country’s infrastructure and threaten ecosystem sustainability. The education sector faces challenges like high rates of out-of-school children and declining education standards, while the healthcare system struggles with overwhelming demand, compromising the quality of care.
Addressing overpopulation requires concerted efforts from policymakers, civil society, religious leaders, and communities. Prioritizing family planning, enhancing reproductive health awareness, empowering women, and investing in education and healthcare infrastructure are critical steps toward sustainable population control and socio-economic development. As Pakistan stands at a crucial juncture, decisive action is imperative to secure a better future for future generations.
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