In recent days, a 2013 interview of former Pakistani ambassador Hussain Haqqani has resurfaced and gone viral across social media and news platforms, reigniting a fierce national and international debate on Pakistan’s domestic spending priorities.
In the video, Haqqani starkly stated:
“One-third of Pakistan’s children never see the inside of a school, but we have nuclear weapons.”
This powerful line has sparked outrage, introspection, and calls for policy change.
What the Interview Revealed
Though over a decade old, Haqqani’s comments resonate more today than ever. His argument was not against national defense — rather, it was a critique of misaligned priorities, where education, healthcare, and infrastructure often take a backseat to defense and military spending.
Haqqani emphasized that a nation’s long-term power and progress lie not just in its arsenal, but in its educated population and stable economy.
The Current Context
- Pakistan spends 3–4% of its GDP on defense, but less than 2% on education.
- Millions of children are still out of school.
- Balochistan and other underserved regions face ongoing neglect and unrest.
- Inflation and poverty have worsened in recent years, affecting basic living standards.
The video’s resurgence is a wake-up call for citizens and policymakers alike.
