Karachi — a case of asymmetric inclusion in the current globalization?

Abstract

Karachi is a mega-city and the only seaport of a populous country. It contains a concentration of Pakistan’s financial and industrial sectors. However, it does not have any of the advanced productive service functions associated with a world city; neither does it show any evidence of developing them. Several scholars have suggested that the various forms of globalization — trade liberalization, development assistance, global communications, economic migration, and international terror/organized crime — have had negative impacts on the economics and livability of Karachi. By critiquing the writings of the city’s intellectuals, polling the intentions of investors, and observing the actual practices of its traditional and non-traditional administrators, this paper seeks to triangulate perceptions of what has thwarted development. Flawed governance and national policies emerge as the root causes. The lack of mechanisms for business disputes resolution, low levels of education and awareness, and unstable energy supplies are the main operational obstacles to investment in Karachi. The uncertain law and order is a pervasive background factor. Should these issues be addressed simultaneously or would a strategic intervention suffice for progressive change?