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All about FIA and Meta’s partnership and what it means for countering cybercrime

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ISLAMABAD – The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has established a direct official communication channel with Meta Asia Pacific (APAC) to accelerate investigations into organised cybercrime, online fraud, hate speech, and other digital offences.

The arrangement enables secure and lawful coordination between the FIA and Meta for requests involving Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, according to officials.

Under the new mechanism, Meta has formally recognised the FIA’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) at the agency’s National Command and Control Centre (NC3). All official requests related to Meta platforms will now be processed exclusively through this designated channel.

Faster Response Times Expected

Previously, requests submitted by the FIA had to be processed through Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) or Interpol, a procedure officials said could take several months. With the new communication channel in place, authorities expect response times to be reduced from months to only a few days, allowing investigators to obtain digital evidence more quickly.

Types of Requests Covered

The new framework allows the FIA to submit a range of lawful requests to Meta during investigations.

These include:

  • Preservation requests
  • Basic subscriber information
  • Account registration details
  • Login IP history
  • Content removal requests
  • Emergency disclosure requests
  • Officials said every request must be supported by the required legal documentation before being submitted.

How the New Process Works

According to the FIA, investigating officers will first prepare a case file containing all relevant legal documents and Meta account identifiers. The case will then be reviewed and approved by the Circle In-charge before being forwarded to the FIA’s Single Point of Contact at NC3.

The SPOC will submit the request directly to Meta APAC through the newly established official communication channel. Authorities said routing every request through a single authorised office will improve accountability, maintain a clear audit trail, and ensure faster processing.

FIA Says System Will Strengthen Time-Sensitive Investigations

FIA Director General Dr Usman Anwar said the direct communication mechanism would significantly enhance the agency’s ability to respond to urgent investigations. He noted that the arrangement would be particularly valuable in cases involving terrorism, child exploitation, organised cybercrime, online fraud, and other time-sensitive digital investigations.

The new framework provides the FIA with a faster and more structured process for handling Meta-related requests while ensuring that all communications remain legally documented and centrally managed.

Key Points:

  • FIA has established a direct communication channel with Meta Asia Pacific (APAC).
  • The new system is expected to reduce response times from months to just days.
  • All official requests will be routed through the FIA’s National Command and Control Centre (NC3).
  • The arrangement covers Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp investigations.
  • Lawful requests include account information, login history, preservation requests, content removal, and emergency disclosures.
  • The FIA says the system will improve responses in terrorism, child exploitation, and organised cybercrime cases.

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Editorial

Why Pakistani Gen Z’s are admiring CJP protests in India

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Pakistani Gen Z admiration with CJP protests
This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

LAHORE – Pakistani Gen Z admiration with CJP protests has taken social media by storm. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a youth-led satirical protest movement in India, has gained attention for its unique blend of humor, memes, and activism.  

Young Pakistanis are sharing clips, creating commentary, and engaging online with content from the movement. The fascination stems from a combination of entertainment, creativity, and the sense of shared frustrations with governance and opportunities that resonate across borders. 

Why Pakistani Gen Z's are admiring CJP Protests in India

This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

What Is the Cockroach Janta Party? 

The CJP began as a satirical response to corruption, exam paper leaks, and systemic inefficiencies in India. Young protesters embraced the “cockroach” label—originally intended as an insult—to symbolize resilience and defiance. Videos of chants, creative placards, and peaceful sit-ins quickly went viral on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Pakistani youth were drawn to the movement because it combines activism with humor and relatable energy. The creativity of the protesters, paired with the viral content, made it more appealing than traditional news coverage. 

 

Why Pakistani Gen Z Is Paying Attention 

Shared Youth Frustrations 

Many young Pakistanis see parallels between their own struggles and those highlighted by CJP. Challenges like exam stress, limited employment opportunities, and frustration with institutions resonate with the narrative of the Indian youth movement. 

Social Media Bridges Borders 

The virality of CJP content has made it instantly accessible. Reels, memes, and short clips allow Pakistani youth to follow the movement in real-time. This digital immediacy gives them a sense of participation, even from thousands of kilometers away. 

Humor and Creativity as Protest Tools 

CJP’s unique style—combining satire, memes, and playful yet pointed activism—resonates with the Gen Z digital culture in Pakistan. Pakistani youth admire the courage and cleverness of the movement, which uses humor to critique serious issues, making activism both entertaining and impactful. 

 

Memes, Reels, and Viral Engagement 

The CJP protests exemplify how modern activism is increasingly visual and shareable. Memes, TikTok clips, and Instagram stories allow Pakistani youth to not just observe but engage with the movement. Pakistani Gen Z admiration with CJP protests is fueled by this participatory culture, where content is remixable, shareable, and interactive. 

 

Admiration or Entertainment? 

While some might argue that Pakistan’s Gen Z is merely enjoying the spectacle, the admiration goes deeper. It reflects a recognition of creativity, courage, and youth empowerment. By following CJP, Pakistani youth are connecting to ideas of accountability, digital activism, and civic engagement, even in a different national context. 

 

Conclusion: Cross-Border Youth Energy 

The popularity of the CJP movement among Pakistani youth shows how digital culture is creating cross-border solidarity. Pakistani Gen Z admiration with CJP protests highlights the influence of humor, creativity, and activism in capturing youth attention. In a world connected by social media, youth movements no longer remain confined by geography—they inspire, resonate, and engage audiences far beyond their origin. 

 

Key Points:

  • Pakistani Gen Z admiration with CJP protests is growing across social media.  
  • The CJP movement uses satire, memes, and humor to highlight corruption and systemic failures.  
  • Shared frustrations between youth in Pakistan and India fuel empathy and engagement.  
  • Social media amplifies reach, making distant protests feel personal and participatory.  
  • The movement reflects a broader trend of Gen Z valuing creativity, digital activism, and cross-border engagement. 

 

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Pakistan

Pakistani freelancers outperform earn record $1.76 billion

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LAHORE – Pakistan’s freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 78 per cent increase compared to $984 million recorded in FY25, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The latest figures underline the growing role of Pakistan’s freelance workforce in strengthening the country’s digital economy and increasing export earnings through global online platforms.

IT Freelancers Lead Export Growth

According to the SBP data, IT freelancers generated more than $1.16bn during FY26, compared with $779m in the previous fiscal year. The increase of 49pc, equivalent to $385m, highlights continued demand for Pakistani software developers, programmers, designers and other technology professionals in international markets.

Meanwhile, non-IT freelancers recorded even stronger growth. Their export earnings climbed to $592m during FY26 from $205m in FY25, reflecting a 188pc increase, or $387m, over the period.

Freelancers Strengthening Pakistan’s Economy

Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelancers continue to make a significant contribution to Pakistan’s economy by bringing valuable foreign exchange into the country while supporting tax revenues.

He said Pakistan’s freelancing community has rapidly become one of the country’s strongest export sectors, surpassing several traditional industries within a relatively short period. According to Amin, Pakistani freelancers are improving their livelihoods while helping create a more productive, skilled and digitally empowered workforce.

Pakistan Among World’s Largest Freelancing Markets

Industry estimates suggest Pakistan is home to nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, making it the fourth-largest freelancing workforce globally.

PAFLA President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Imran Batada said expanding digital skills programmes is essential to prepare young Pakistanis for opportunities on international freelancing and digital platforms. He said wider access to digital education would help reduce unemployment, alleviate poverty and further increase export earnings.

Focus on AI and Digital Skills

Dr Batada said PAFLA plans to expand its free digital skills training programmes over the coming year, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. He encouraged freelancers to move beyond project-based work by establishing startups or registered companies while continuously upgrading their skills in emerging technologies.

Dr Batada also welcomed the government’s support for the freelancing industry through favourable tax policies and skills development initiatives, saying these measures would further accelerate the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy

Key Points:

  • Pakistani freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in FY26, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.
  • Freelance earnings increased 78% from $984 million in FY25.
  • IT freelancers generated over $1.16 billion, up 49% year-on-year.
  • Non-IT freelancers contributed $592 million, recording a 188% increase.
  • Pakistan is estimated to have nearly three million freelancers, making it the world’s fourth-largest freelancing workforce.
  • Industry leaders called for greater investment in AI, data analytics and digital skills training to sustain growth.

 

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Education

Why Is the Scope of Medical Degree in Pakistan Declining?

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Is MBBS losing value in Pakistan?
This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

LAHORE – For decades, becoming a doctor was considered one of the safest and most respected career choices in Pakistan. Families invested years of effort and millions of rupees because an MBBS degree was seen as a guaranteed path toward financial stability and social respect. 

However, the reality has started changing. 

Today, many medical graduates are questioning whether spending five years studying medicine still guarantees a successful career. Increasing competition, limited training opportunities, rising education costs, and difficulties in finding well-paid jobs have created uncertainty among students. 

The changing scope of medical degree in Pakistan has become a major concern for thousands of aspiring doctors and their families. 

Why is the medical degree devaluing?

This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

Is MBBS Still a Secure Career Option in Pakistan? 

For many years, MBBS was considered a profession with guaranteed demand. Doctors were respected, employment opportunities were available, and specialization often led to better career prospects. 

However, the situation has become more complicated. 

Pakistan now produces a large number of medical graduates every year, while the number of quality training positions and employment opportunities has not increased at the same pace. 

As a result, many young doctors face challenges such as: 

  • Limited house job opportunities  
  • Difficulty finding permanent positions  
  • Low starting salaries  
  • Delayed specialization  
  • Increased competition  

The problem is not that Pakistan does not need doctors. The country still faces major healthcare challenges. Instead, the issue is a mismatch between the number of graduates entering the field and the opportunities available to them. 

 

Why Is the Scope of Medical Degree in Pakistan Decreasing? 

  1. Too Many Graduates and Limited Opportunities

One of the biggest reasons behind the changing medical career landscape is increasing competition. 

Over the years, the number of medical colleges and medical seats has expanded. The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) maintains lists of recognized public and private medical colleges across the country.  

However, expanding the number of graduates without creating enough: 

  • Hospitals  
  • Training positions  
  • Research opportunities  
  • Specialist jobs  

creates pressure on the healthcare job market. 

Consequently, many graduates struggle to find opportunities that match their qualifications. 

 

Are Medical Graduates Facing Job Problems in Pakistan? 

Why Are Young Doctors Struggling After MBBS? 

Completing an MBBS degree is only the beginning of a doctor’s career journey. 

After graduation, doctors usually require: 

  • House job training  
  • Postgraduate specialization  
  • Clinical experience  

However, competition for these opportunities has increased. 

Many young doctors complain about: 

  • Long working hours  
  • Low salaries during early career stages  
  • Limited postgraduate seats  
  • Uncertainty about career progression  

Online discussions among medical graduates also frequently highlight concerns about job availability, low initial earnings, and increasing competition in the profession.  

As a result, some graduates consider leaving Pakistan or switching career paths. 

 

How Are Rising Medical Education Costs Affecting Students? 

Has Becoming a Doctor Become Too Expensive? 

Another major challenge is the increasing cost of medical education. 

Private medical colleges have become increasingly expensive for many Pakistani families. Reports have highlighted concerns that private MBBS education costs can become unaffordable, especially for students who cannot secure government medical college admission.  

Although authorities have discussed fee regulation, including proposals around private medical college tuition caps, affordability remains a major concern for students.  

For many families, the financial calculation has changed. 

A student may spend years and significant resources completing medical education, but the return on investment may take much longer than expected. 

 

Why Are Pakistani Doctors Moving Abroad? 

Is Brain Drain Reducing the Value of Medical Careers in Pakistan? 

A significant number of Pakistani doctors choose to move abroad after graduation. 

Popular destinations include: 

  • United Kingdom  
  • United States  
  • Gulf countries  
  • Australia  

Doctors often seek: 

  • Better salaries  
  • Improved working conditions  
  • Advanced training opportunities  
  • Professional growth  

While overseas opportunities can benefit individual doctors, large-scale migration creates challenges for Pakistan’s healthcare system. 

The country invests in training doctors, but many eventually provide their services elsewhere. 

 

Is Pakistan Producing More Doctors Than It Can Support? 

Is There a Gap Between Medical Education and Healthcare Planning? 

Pakistan’s healthcare system faces a unique contradiction. 

On one hand, the country needs more healthcare professionals, especially in rural and underserved areas. 

On the other hand, many newly qualified doctors struggle to find suitable career opportunities. 

This shows that the problem is not simply the number of doctors. 

Instead, Pakistan needs better planning involving: 

  • Hospital expansion  
  • Rural healthcare development  
  • Specialist training programs  
  • Research opportunities  
  • Better employment structures  

Without proper planning, producing more graduates alone will not solve healthcare problems. 

 

What Are the Effects of a Declining Medical Career Scope? 

The changing medical career landscape affects both students and the healthcare system. 

  1. Students May Avoid Medical Education

If students believe medicine no longer provides stable career opportunities, fewer talented individuals may choose the profession. 

This could affect the future quality of healthcare workers. 

 

  1. More Doctors May Leave Pakistan

Limited opportunities can encourage more graduates to search for careers abroad. 

This increases pressure on Pakistan’s healthcare system. 

 

  1. Healthcare Quality Could Face Challenges

When doctors face financial stress, poor working conditions, and limited growth opportunities, it can affect motivation and retention. 

A strong healthcare system requires not only trained doctors but also a supportive professional environment. 

 

Is Medical Degree Still Worth It in Pakistan? 

Despite these challenges, medicine remains an important and respected profession. 

Doctors continue to have opportunities through: 

  • Specialization  
  • Private practice  
  • Research  
  • Teaching  
  • International careers  

However, students now need realistic expectations. 

Choosing medicine only because of social pressure or the belief that it guarantees wealth may not be enough. 

Future doctors need: 

  • Passion for healthcare  
  • Long-term commitment  
  • Awareness of career challenges  
  • Willingness to continue learning  

 

What Can Pakistan Do to Improve the Future of Medical Education? 

Pakistan needs reforms that connect medical education with healthcare requirements. 

Important steps include: 

Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure 

More hospitals and training centers can create additional opportunities for graduates. 

Improving Doctor Employment Conditions 

Better salaries, working environments, and career pathways can help retain doctors. 

Strengthening Medical Training 

Quality education and practical clinical exposure should remain priorities. 

Better Workforce Planning 

The government needs accurate planning about how many doctors the country requires and where they are needed. 

 

Key Points:

  • Increasing competition: More medical graduates are entering the field, creating pressure on available opportunities.  
  • Limited jobs: Many doctors struggle with employment and postgraduate training opportunities after MBBS.  
  • Expensive education: Private medical education has become financially challenging for many families.  
  • Doctor migration: Many Pakistani doctors move abroad for better salaries and career growth.  
  • Healthcare planning issues: The country needs better coordination between medical education and healthcare demand.  
  • Changing expectations: MBBS is no longer viewed as an automatic guarantee of financial success.  
  • Need for reforms: Better hospitals, training programs, and employment structures are required.  

Conclusion: Is the Golden Era of MBBS in Pakistan Ending? 

The medical profession in Pakistan is not disappearing, but the traditional belief that an MBBS degree automatically guarantees success is changing. 

The real challenge is not the value of medicine itself. Instead, it is the growing gap between the number of medical graduates and the opportunities available to them. 

For Pakistan to protect the future of healthcare, it must focus on creating better career pathways for doctors while ensuring students receive quality medical education. 

A medical degree will always carry respect, but in today’s Pakistan, passion alone is no longer enough. Proper planning, opportunities, and reforms are needed to restore confidence in the profession. 

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