State of Democracy in Pakistan 2023 | One Step Forward, Two Steps Backward? STATE OF DEMOCRACY IN PAKISTAN 2023 One Step Forward, Two Steps Backward? December 2023 Pakistan’s democracy is a product of complex historical and contemporary factors. Power distribution is often imbalanced, and the nation’s political culture exhibits tension between authoritarian rule and democratic governance. Coupled with parliamentary continuity and greater citizen participation in the electoral process, the country’s social and economic profile has undergone significant changes along with challenges for democracy. Challenges to the state of democracy in Pakistan include disparities in voter participation, concerns about electoral credibility, and issues within political parties. The practical realization of fundamental rights remains a key challenge in strengthening democracy. 1