International Conference On The Constitution of Pakistan: Lessons for the Next 50 Years

Event Date: 18-19 October, 2023
Venue: New Auditorium, FJWU

The Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, represents a lasting symbol of national unity, encapsulating our collective identity and character. Despite enduring numerous challenges, it has remained resilient, aiming to accommodate the diverse needs of our multi-ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and religious society while upholding a federal and parliamentary structure that maintains equilibrium among all segments of the nation. The division of powers is delineated, providing distinct roles and interdependencies among state institutions while allowing for necessary adaptations. However, successive governments have sometimes compromised the Constitution's intended flexibility and guidelines for short-term gains, resulting in a gradual erosion of the balance of power among various stakeholders. As we commemorate its 50th anniversary in 2023, we must look forward to the next 50 years with a forward-thinking vision emphasizing enhanced governance, inclusive policies, and harmonized frameworks. To mark this milestone, the Institute of Policy Studies Islamabad (IPS) and the Department of Law at Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU) have collaborated to organize an international conference, bringing together legal experts and practitioners to discuss vital constitutional themes on 18-19 October 2023. Themes include:

  • Constitution and National Integration,
  • Relations between the Federation and Provinces,
  • Democracy and Public Representation,
  • Civil-Military Relations in a Democratic Pakistan,
  • Legislation and Interpretation: Achieving balance in legislature-judiciary relations.