Haya Fatima Sehgal’s recent book titled ‘Resilient Pakistan’ is a compilation of her articles
published in various newspapers in a span of 5 years. Through the course of the book, the author
has looked at different issues concerning the state of Pakistan through a socio-cultural lens.
‘According to the author, ‘resilient’ is the most fitting term to describe the people of the country.
As a Pakistani nation is dealing with a number of challenges in the country’s 75-year history.
And has emerged stronger in the face of adversities.
The ideals for Pakistan as envisioned by the founding father Jinnah are a prominent theme in the
author’s idea of Pakistan of the future. She derives inspiration from ‘Jinnah’s Pakistan’ and
wishes to see his dream become a reality. The author without denying the existing issues present
in the Pakistani society, expresses hope for a future where intolerance and extremism are
eradicated from the social fabric. She emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity and
inclusivity in building a resilient Pakistan. Sehgal also addresses the impact of global events on
Pakistan’s sociocultural fabric, such as the war on terror and the rise of social media. She argues
for the need to protect and promote Pakistan’s rich heritage and traditions, while also embracing
progress and modernity.
She refers to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s speech from 11 th August 1947. In which he
envisioned a tolerant Pakistan based on the principle of equality and social justice. “We are
starting in the days when there is no discrimination. No distinction between one community and
another. no discrimination between one caste or creed and another. We are starting with this
fundamental principle that we are all citizens and equal citizens of one State.” – Muhammad Ali
Jinnah
In her book, Sehgal provides a comprehensive analysis of various societal challenges, including
gender inequality, education, and economic disparities. She offers insightful solutions and
recommendations to address these issues, emphasizing the role of individuals, communities, and
the government in bringing about positive change.
Women empowerment and gender equality are recurring themes in the book. The author pays
tributes to courageous women such as the Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai and Benazir Bhutto
and highlights their significant contributions to society. She emphasizes the need to challenge
traditional gender roles and promote women’s participation in all spheres of life. In her article,
“Acknowledging Malala,” she writes, “We must create circumstances that accept and honour
people like Malala Yousafzai.” Sehgal also highlights challenges faced by marginalized
communities, such as religious minorities and women, and calls for greater inclusivity and
empowerment. She believes that by addressing these issues and promoting social justice,
Pakistan can truly become a resilient and prosperous nation.
On Aurat March and the fight for women’s rights in Pakistan, Sehgal contends that “to march for
women’s human rights is an act of freedom.” Although certain legislative steps in the right
direction have been taken towards protecting women’s rights, there is still a long way to go in
terms of achieving true gender equality in Pakistan. She believes that the march embodies the
spirit of resilience and represents the collective voice of women demanding equality and justice.
The book also delves into the educational challenges faced by Pakistan and the importance of
investing in quality education for all. Sehgal highlights the need for educational reforms that
address issues such as access, quality, and curriculum relevance. She emphasizes the role of
education in shaping the future of Pakistan and calls for greater investment in the education
sector.
One of the points raised in the book is the impact of climate change on Pakistan’s socio-cultural
fabric. Sehgal highlights the vulnerability of the country to environmental challenges and calls
for sustainable development practices. She stresses the need for collective action to combat
climate change and protect the natural resources of Pakistan. Expressing her hope with the youth
for their efforts towards impactful climate action to protect the environment, she writes; “With
Gen Z very much at the forefront of climate change action, this generation is in top form and
knows what it wants.”
The author discusses topics such as gender equality, gender-based violence, climate change,
extremism, regional geopolitics and the importance of good relations with major powers. She
explores the impact of these issues on Pakistan’s sociocultural fabric and offers critical analysis
and perspectives. Sehgal’s writing is thought-provoking, capturing the readers’ attention and
encouraging them to reflect on the state of the nation.
The book ends with interviews of notable personalities who have contributed towards the
betterment of Pakistani society. These include Liaquat Merchant; Managing Trustee of Jinnah
Society and grand-nephew of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Sadia Rashid; the President
of Hamdard Foundation, Sister Ruth Lewis, a Pakistani born nun from the Catholic community
who runs Dar-ul-Sukun, a home for orphans and special needs persons, Samina Baig; the high-
altitude mountaineer who climbed Mount Everest, Sultana Siddiqui; the President of Hum
Network; and Lt. General Nigar Johar, the first woman in Pakistan army to attain the rank of Lt.
General. Their diverse perspectives shed light on different aspects of the challenges and
opportunities faced by Pakistan.
The author stresses on positive image-building of Pakistan in the global arena, showcasing the
country’s positive aspects and accomplishments to overcome negative stereotypes. She writes,
“We must portray the nation as a strong unit – upholding global and humane values;
simultaneously upgrading, amending laws and policies to safeguard vulnerable communities
living within.”
Sehgal presents an optimistic view of the potential of Pakistan if it effectively addresses internal
issues and leverages its strengths. She emphasizes the importance of good governance,
transparency, and accountability in building a prosperous and resilient nation. She says, “If
Pakistan is able to recognize itself as what it truly is with transparency and focus on the millions
in the middle of a power struggle, Pakistan can be a force to be reckoned with.”
Overall, ‘Resilient Pakistan’ offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the sociocultural
landscape of Pakistan. Through her book, the author aims to inspire a collective effort towards
creating a resilient and thriving Pakistan, where every citizen has equal rights and opportunities.
‘Resilient Pakistan’ is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of
Pakistani society and the path towards a brighter future.
by Haya Fatima Sehgal.
The author is a freelance researcher and a graduate in IR from NDU.
