Rafia Razzaq

This editorial exposes how AI and algorithmic systems dehumanize people by abstracting identity, amplifying bias, and automating injustice. It argues for transparent, rights-based, and human-centered approaches to technology.

As populist movements upend political systems across the globe, liberal democracy faces its most serious challenge in decades. In this editorial, Rafia Razzaq examines how populism exploits economic and cultural discontent, undermines institutions, and threatens the post-war liberal consensus, while offering solutions for democratic renewal.

Honor-based violence and control over women’s bodies remain deeply entrenched in Pakistan's cultural and legal systems. This editorial by Rafia Razzaq explores the intersection of patriarchy, law, and morality that enables systemic oppression, while advocating for cultural reform, legal action, and inclusive resistance.

Pakistan’s foreign policy navigates competing imperatives: strategic partnership with the US, deep ties with China, and cultural solidarity with the Muslim world. This editorial examines the diplomatic balancing act, economic dependencies, and institutional strategies needed to assert sovereignty and foster sustainable national interests.

Political polarization in Pakistan threatens unity, governance, and democracy. This editorial urge dialogue and reform to restore national cohesion.

In an era where misinformation thrives and truth is fragmented; democracy stands at a crossroads. This editorial critically examines how digital disinformation distorts civic engagement, undermines institutions, and necessitates urgent reforms in governance, media, and education to uphold democratic integrity.

This editorial explores the evolving role of Pakistan’s judiciary in reinforcing democratic institutions, ensuring electoral integrity, and safeguarding constitutional governance. It critically evaluates the balance between judicial independence and political neutrality while proposing reforms to enhance judicial credibility and efficiency.

Pakistan’s informal economy employs the majority of its labor force and sustains livelihoods, yet it undermines fiscal stability, social protections, and productivity. This editorial explores whether it represents a hidden economic strength or a structural weakness, offering balanced insights and reform pathways.

This editorial explores the dominance of dynastic politics in Pakistan and its detrimental impact on meritocracy, governance, and democratic development. It calls for structural reforms to dismantle political heredity and build inclusive, performance-driven political institutions.

An in-depth editorial on Pakistan’s neglected local government system, exploring its democratic importance, systemic challenges, and the political resistance to genuine devolution. Highlights the need for structural reforms and political will to empower grassroots governance.

Authoritarianism today is being reengineered through digital technologies, surveillance, censorship, disinformation, and platform control. The editorial analyzes how regimes are using these tools to suppress dissent and reconfigure power, and proposes global rights-based frameworks to counter digital authoritarianism and uphold democratic principles.