Introduction:
The Pakistan Progressive Forum (PPF) is a social and educational platform organized by the progressive Pakistani diaspora in North America. Historically people of Pakistani origins in North America have played a significant role in the economic, sociopolitical and technical development of Pakistan. Notwithstanding their remittances contributing to some level of foreign exchange, their political involvement has direct influence from grassroots movements to governmental policies. Although the majority of North American diaspora is apolitical, however, it does reflect the sociopolitical currents, upheavals and people's struggles. In past, there have been feeble activities by the progressive diaspora that had linkages to progressive movements in Pakistan, as many activists either resided or were exiled here. Currently, there has been a resurgence of progressive activities in the homeland primarily as a notion of resistance to autocratic rulers and antidemocratic forces. Hence, a revival of the same in the diasporic community has been observed in North America and as a consequence, PPF has been formed.
Especially in these times where multiple narratives are propagated mainly of religious fundamentalists, and supporters of antidemocratic establishment. The current conditions in the homeland have brought Pakistanis living in North America to question these narratives. We are asking the Pakistani Diaspora to join us in a frank, clear, progressive and constructive discussion. We intend to highlight that there exists another narrative in progressive thinking. We want to show how Pakistani people are struggling against blatant oppression, human rights abuses, harassment of women, systematic cleansing of religious minorities and chaos caused by fundamentalist forces. Our goal is to organize and create a movement of Pakistani progressive diaspora that is united here and can yield support for progressive movements in Pakistan.
Our Mission
PPF is dedicated to advocating progressive causes in Pakistan. Our key mission is to mobilize our community, drive policy changes and foster social progress that benefits all Pakistanis.
The key aspects of our mission are:
(1) To support in every manner possible the struggle for economic equality and democracy in Pakistan, and to cooperate on a non-partisan basis with all organizations of workers, peasants, women, oppressed nationalities and other progressive strata in Pakistan.
(2) To do the utmost to unite all Pakistanis living abroad, who share the anti-imperialist and democratic aspirations of the Pakistani people.
(3) To cooperate with other groups of Pakistanis living abroad on the common basis of support for democracy and opposition to military and anti-democratic rule.
(4) To work in the Pakistani diaspora to get a sense of their concerns, and likewise, to impart a sense of the struggle for democracy and progressive reforms in Pakistan.
(5) To educate people in Pakistan about the situation of Pakistanis living abroad, especially the specific problems faced by oppressed groups such as workers and women.
Our Vision
Pakistan faces a choice between continued social stagnation and a future of hope, democracy, and freedom. PPF envisions a Pakistan where equality, democratic values, and human rights are upheld, enabling every citizen to prosper. Through the collective strength of the diaspora, we strive to influence policy, promote social advancement, and create opportunities for all.
Challenges and Opportunities
Significant challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, religious extremism, and violence have marked Pakistan's journey. The entrenched power structures hinder human development and progress. Despite abundant resources, 40% of Pakistanis live in poverty, and literacy rates remain low. High unemployment and deep-rooted patriarchy add to these difficulties, while regional conflicts divert resources from development to militarism.
However, there is hope for a brighter future. Enlightened minds, free from prejudice and ignorance, can drive transformative change. Progressive ideas expressed through various cultural and intellectual platforms can pave the way for a tolerant, modern Pakistan free from oppression and exploitation.
