Freelancers across Pakistan urge the government to address persistent internet disruptions that have affected their work over the past three weeks. Tufail Ahmed Khan, President and CEO of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), highlighted the severe impact of these connectivity issues on the freelance sector.
Khan reported that slow internet speeds and frequent outages have hindered freelancers’ ability to meet project deadlines, onboard new clients, and secure future business opportunities. These challenges have led to significant revenue losses for many in the sector.
The PAFLA has emphasized the importance of a stable internet connection for the country’s freelancing industry, which ranks fourth globally with over 2.3 million freelancers. Khan warned that ongoing disruptions could damage Pakistan’s reputation on international freelancing platforms, potentially impacting the industry’s growth.
PAFLA also called on the government to communicate clearly regarding any planned disruptions and consider the economic ramifications of such actions. The association stressed the need for reliable and uninterrupted internet access, essential for freelancers to meet international deadlines and maintain client relationships.
The ongoing internet issues have sparked concern among freelancers, who fear losing clients due to missed deadlines and unreliable communication. Many have expressed frustration over the authorities’ lack of contingency planning, urging the government to prioritize the restoration of services and ensure that such disruptions do not occur in the future.
Freelancing is a significant economic contributor and a crucial source of income for many students and housewives who use it to support their education and families. According to the Economic Survey of Pakistan, freelancers generated $350 million in the fiscal year 2023-24, reflecting the industry’s rapid expansion and vital role in the national economy.
Earlier on August 18, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja denied allegations that the government is intentionally slowing down or restricting internet access. The minister attributed the slowdown to increased usage of virtual private networks (VPNs) by users attempting to bypass local networks, which she said put additional strain on the system.
In a statement issued earlier, the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) expressed alarm over the unexplained internet disruptions, highlighting concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in managing digital media and the internet in Pakistan. PPF emphasized that access to the internet is a fundamental Constitutional right for providing citizens with access to information.
