Could Pakistan’s Private Sector Promote Stability and Peace?

Despite notable developments in governance and internal security in recent months, Pakistan still struggles to consolidate political gains, address a deepening insurgency and improve socioeconomic prospects for its citizens.  Domestic and international efforts mainly focus on the first two challenges, with relatively scant attention paid to strategies for lasting and equitable economic development.  Economic growth could transform communities, bolster human security and contribute to state building by reestablishing the social contract. A viable and competitive private sector is central to success in this regard.

Over the past couple of years foreign direct investment to Pakistan has lagged. Weak performance in the World Bank’s Doing Business ranking reveals the fragility of institutions, lax regulatory enforcement, and an overall policy framework that is not very business-friendly. This panel will analyze these issues and examine creative strategies to empower the private sector, sustain broadbased economic progress and promote peace in Pakistan. Panelists will consider questions like: Is it realistic to discuss business development before security could be guaranteed in and around Pakistan? Is Pakistan’s public sector crowding out private enterprise?  How strong are the links between Pakistan’s informal sector and conflict economy? What role can the United States play in supporting positive economic development outcomes in Pakistan?

Speakers

• Moin M. Fudda
  Country Director for Pakistan, Center for International Private Enterprise
• Shuja Nawaz
  Director, South Asia Center, Atlantic Council
• Esperanza Gomez Jelalian
  Executive Director, U.S.-Pakistan Business Council and Director, South Asia, Asia, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
• Raymond Gilpin, Moderator
  Associate Vice President, Sustainable Economies, U.S. Institute of Peace