Pakistan’s federal government introduced the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, 2024, in the National Assembly on December 16, aiming to transform the country into a digital society with unified governance, economic, and social data.
A framework for a digital future
Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja presented the legislation, highlighting its focus on creating a digital identity for every citizen. The bill outlines the establishment of a National Digital Commission (NDC) and Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA) to oversee the country’s digital transformation.
The NDC, chaired by the prime minister and including key provincial and institutional heads, will provide strategic direction, approve a national digital masterplan, and ensure collaboration among government entities. The PDA, led by industry experts, will implement and monitor this masterplan while ensuring data governance, cloud infrastructure compliance, and fostering a digital economy.
The bill would “enable the transformation of Pakistan into a digital nation, fostering a digital society, digital economy, and digital governance,” Khawaja stated during the National Broadband Network Forum 2024.
The bill aims to enable the people to become a digital nation by leveraging the transformative power of digital technologies, responsible use of data, innovative service delivery models and robust digital public infrastructure to accelerate sustainable economic development, improve citizen well-being, and modernize governance frameworks for efficient and effective public service delivery.
Key provisions and objectives
The bill’s cornerstone is a unified digital ID system for citizens, encompassing health, assets, and social indicators. Inspired by digital initiatives in countries like the UAE and Estonia, it aims to streamline access to government departments managing ID cards, land records, and health data.
Additionally, the legislation emphasizes high-speed connectivity as a critical element of modern life, prioritizing governance, economic growth, and societal advancement. Khawaja noted that 70% of cabinet operations are already managed through e-governance, showcasing progress toward digitization.
The bill also proposes safeguards for digital spaces, particularly for children. Citing examples from Australia and the U.S., Khawaja stressed the importance of protecting the youth online.
While the bill sets an ambitious roadmap, digital rights experts have raised concerns about data security within the centralized system. Further clarity is anticipated as the bill progresses through parliament.
Pakistan’s ranking among the top tiers in the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 underscores its commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development. Khawaja emphasized that collective efforts are essential to ensure a safe and efficient digital ecosystem.