The internet slowdown in Pakistan has caused widespread disruption and concern among citizens and businesses. Internet speeds have dropped to half their usual rates, according to trade groups and business owners. Files that used to upload in minutes now take hours.
Online calls and video conferencing suffer from frozen screens and delayed voices. The Pakistan Software Houses Association, which represents software companies nationwide, said in a statement that it “unequivocally condemns the grave consequences of the hastily implemented national firewall.” They warn that Pakistan’s economy could lose up to $300 million due to the disruptions. Freelance software designer Shafi Naeem from Karachi has already felt the impact.
The websites he uses to find work would not load. Sites he built for clients took much longer than usual to upload. Clients sent him WhatsApp messages that would not download.
“It’s not just bad for business; it’s devastating,” said Mr. Naeem, 39. He estimates he has already lost over half of his roughly $4,000 monthly income.
Internet disruptions hurt Pakistan businesses
“Our work depends on fast, reliable internet.”
The government denies responsibility for the slowdown, which has affected millions of users. However, digital researchers and analysts suggest the government may be testing new controls to suppress dissent.
This has stoked fears of increased surveillance and internet censorship. Rights groups have strongly criticized these developments. They argue such measures can infringe on free speech and privacy rights.
As the situation unfolds, many Pakistanis remain worried about the potential long-term impacts on the country’s digital and economic landscape. The disruptions have already caused irreversible damage to individuals and businesses. Pakistan is now viewed as an unstable, unviable market where investments may lead to losses.
There are no guarantees of service or data privacy. Centralized network filtering and monitoring affect everyone, from high-ranking officials to average citizens. At stake are the livelihoods of citizens, their right to do business, and the fundamental rights of expression, access to information, and privacy.
As the slowdown persists, Pakistanis anxiously await a resolution and transparency from their government.
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