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In a growing digital economy like Pakistan’s, reliable internet connectivity is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Unfortunately, continuous slow internet speeds have become a significant concern for the country’s IT experts and the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA). They warn that these disruptions pose a severe threat to Pakistan’s digital economy, impacting a wide array of individuals and businesses.
The Widespread Impact of Slow Internet
The effects of slow internet are being felt across various sectors. Freelancers, IT companies, small traders, and everyday citizens are facing substantial daily losses due to these ongoing disruptions. The issue extends beyond just businesses, affecting ordinary people in their daily lives.
For instance, lower middle-class housewives who sell home-cooked meals through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are finding it difficult to market their products. Students are struggling to share and download notes, sketches, and images via WhatsApp, making their academic life more challenging. Journalists, particularly those working from home under COVID-19 guidelines, are finding it increasingly difficult to meet deadlines due to unreliable internet connections.
Even local communities are feeling the pinch. Committees that update residents on essential services like water supply, electricity restoration, and gas issues through WhatsApp are unable to communicate effectively. Content creators on TikTok, online tutors, and many others who rely on a stable internet connection are severely impacted.
The Economic Toll on Freelancers
Parvez Iftikhar, an IT and Telecom Sector Expert, highlighted that the reliance on mobile internet spans various professions. Plumbers, carpenters, small contractors, and gig economy workers such as drivers for inDrive and Careem, delivery personnel for Bykea and Foodpanda, and e-commerce shopkeepers are entirely dependent on a stable internet connection for their livelihood.
PAFLA President and CEO Tufail Ahmed Khan expressed serious concerns about the impact of these internet issues on freelancers. “Pakistan is the fourth-largest freelancing industry globally, with over 2.3 million full-time and part-time freelancers,” Khan noted. Over the past three weeks, freelancers have struggled with slow internet speeds and frequent disruptions, making it difficult to meet project deadlines, onboard new clients, and secure future business.
The Economic Survey of Pakistan reported that Pakistani freelancers generated $350 million in FY 2023-24, marking a 40% year-on-year increase. This highlights the rapid growth and importance of the freelancing industry to the national economy. However, Khan warned that if these internet issues persist, Pakistan’s standing on online freelancing platforms might be downgraded, further damaging the industry.
Calls for Immediate Action
PAFLA Co-Founder and Chairman Ibrahim Amin stressed that most freelancers have worked hard to create a decent living for themselves and their families, often after struggling to find jobs in the private and public sectors. The recent internet disruptions have brought new challenges, making it difficult for them to continue their work.
PAFLA, in collaboration with partner universities and educational institutions, holds weekly seminars for freelancers in both major cities and smaller towns, attracting a large and motivated audience. However, the ongoing disruptions have led to a sense of despair among freelancers.
Amin appealed to the authorities to prioritize this issue and take immediate action to restore full internet services. “A stable and secure internet connection is crucial for freelancers to continue their work and support their families. The current situation not only tarnishes the reputation of Pakistani freelancers but also poses significant risks to the broader digital economy,” he added.
As Pakistan continues to push for a more digital future, addressing these internet issues is therefore critical. Moreover, ensuring a stable and reliable internet connection is not just about convenience; it’s also about sustaining livelihoods and supporting the nation’s economic growth in the digital age.
