The report, produced by IMS, Mediastan and partner Freedom Network, provides an assessment of the quantum and quality of progress made by Pakistan in its digital transformation journey and the challenges that impede optimal progress. It shows that the increasing digitalisation of government services and growth of the IT-enabled services sector have exhibited tremendous potential to improve governance, spur economic growth, foster innovation and improve the quality of life. However, limited infrastructure and inadequate investments prevent the realisation of the potential and promise of digital transformation, according to the report.

Key findings

• While significant efforts were made in IT development, AI adoption and e-governance, restrictive measures such as Internet disruptions, online surveillance and content regulation continued to hinder inclusive digital growth.
• Digital governance saw improvements in financial systems and public service delivery, with provincial governments launching apps for land records, civic services and agriculture support. The IT sector experienced growth in exports and infrastructure, with new technology zones and partnerships. But freelances, start-ups and software companies faced disruptions due to connectivity issues caused by the testing of an official web monitoring system by government authorities.
• Online freedom of expression suffered due to frequent Internet shutdowns, social media bans and digital surveillance measures. The use of AI in electoral campaigns marked a turning point for the use of technology in politics but also led to crackdowns on activists.

Strategic actions

The report is meant to provide stakeholders, including policy makers, citizens, businesses, tech sector, media and the civil society, with critical information that can help shape the national digital transformation agenda.