Brief
World Economic Forum backs conditional plan for new Pakistani provinces
The forum says new units could improve services, accountability and political responsibility if backed by funding and reforms.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The World Economic Forum has conditionally supported proposals to create up to 25 new provinces or administrative units in Pakistan, according to a report published on 10 October 2026. The forum argues that smaller units could bring government services closer to citizens, improve public administration, and enhance financial accountability and political responsibility. It stresses that any expansion must be linked to practical reforms, including reliable funding, taxation powers and clear duties for the new units. The forum notes that Pakistan’s four current provinces each average about 60 million people, leaving many districts far from provincial capitals. It also highlights education challenges, citing that roughly 28 percent of children aged five to 16 are out of school, underscoring the need for effective local governance. No implementation timeline or government decision was provided.
Key facts
- The World Economic Forum conditionally supports creating up to 25 new provinces or administrative units in Pakistan. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- The forum says new units could improve public services, financial accountability and political responsibility. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- Pakistan currently has four provinces with an average population of about 60 million each. (dailytimes.com.pk)
Sources
- [1] dailytimes.com.pk — originally reported as “WEF backs conditional plan for 16 new Pakistani provinces”
