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The Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), which represents freelancers in the country, has demanded authorities to take action on ongoing internet issues and to restore its full capacity.
PAFLA President & CEO, Tufail Ahmed Khan highlighted that freelancers have been dealing with slow internet speeds and frequent disruptions for the past three weeks. A stable internet connection is required for freelancers to work efficiently and continue contributing to the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
These issues have made it difficult for them to meet project deadlines, attract new clients, and secure future work which is leading to significant revenue losses.
“Pakistan is the fourth-largest freelancing industry globally, with over 2.3 million full-time and part-time freelancers,” Khan said.
“If these issues persist, online freelancing platforms may downgrade our standing, further damaging the industry.”
Moreover, full-time freelancers and many students depend on freelancing to pay for their education, and many educated housewives work as freelancers to support their families amid rising inflation.
ProPakistani citing, the Economic Survey of Pakistan reports that Pakistani freelancers generated $350 million in FY 2023-24 which is a 40% increase from the previous year.
“This highlights the industry’s rapid growth, potential, and importance to the national economy,” Khan added.
PAFLA Co-Founder & Chairman, Ibrahim Amin, pointed out that many freelancers in Pakistan have worked hard to make a living for themselves and their families after struggling to find jobs in the private and public sectors.
Unfortunately, due to recent internet speed issues and disruptions, they are once again facing difficulties. He also mentioned that PAFLA, along with partner universities and educational institutions, organizes various seminars for freelancers every week in major cities and smaller towns, drawing large, eager, and motivated audiences.
However, the ongoing disruption has led them to depression. Ibrahim Amin called the authorities to prioritize this issue and take immediate steps to restore full internet services.
“A stable and secure internet connection is vital for freelancers to continue their work and support their families. The current situation not only tarnishes the reputation of Pakistani freelancers but also poses significant risks to the broader economy,” he stressed.