LSL Law and Policy Research Centre organized a panel discussion on “Democracy at Crossroads: Assessing Challenges to Pakistan’s Constitutional Framework” featuring esteemed panelists Mary James Gill, Maryam S Khan and Wajahat Masood.

Maryam S Khan discussed the discrepancies between Pakistan’s constitutional framework & its practical implementation. She highlighted the ‘elephant in the room’—the gap between democratic ideals & the actual power dynamics, describing Pakistan’s current regime as a “hybrid regime” with both civil and military elements.

Wajahat Masood reflected on Pakistan’s political history and the persistent challenges to democracy. He emphasized the importance of economic governance, education, and equal representation in addressing these challenges.

Mary James Gill spoke about the need for solutions to come from those directly experiencing the challenges, asserting that true democratic power lies with the people. She discussed how marginalized sections of society further find themselves less included in the political system.

The event also included an interactive session with students, and concluded with Justice Nasira Iqbal and Ajmal Shah Din, of LSL, presenting thanks and tokens of appreciation to the guests.