BY : Abdeali Hakimddin
Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Institute
of Science & Technology (SZABIST) Karachi.
Karachi : Pakistan has been experiencing significant network disruptions recently, posing major challenges for freelancers who rely on stable internet connections to work with international clients. The sluggish
internet has particularly affected the youth, including freelancers and social media content creators, who
depend on a stable network for their livelihood.A considerable number of young Pakistanis are facing slow internet speeds, leading to international clients severing ties with Pakistani freelancers. This has tarnished Pakistan's reputation, which was previously strong, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Freelancer Ezhan reported that he used to manage an average of 60 orders after school but is now facing obstacles due to internet issues. Another freelancer, Abdul Hai, stated that communication difficulties caused by internet disruptions are delaying project approvals and hindering the receipt of new project briefs. I, too, have faced similar challenges as a freelancer, with clients becoming frustrated and canceling projects due to Pakistan's sluggish internet and network firewalls.
Freelancers working on platforms like Fiverr are also affected by slow internet and network firewalls. To
circumvent these issues, many freelancers resort to using VPN services, which can lead to an "unavailable" status on the platform. It is imperative to address these network issues to safeguard the livelihoods of Pakistani freelancers and maintain the country's reputation as a reliable outsourcing destination.
