94% of Pakistanis Struggle with Basic Living Costs: Survey Reveals

A recent survey by the international research institute IPSOS reveals alarming concerns about Pakistanis current situation. The survey, part of the ongoing Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) in Pakistan, shows that only one in ten Pakistanis believe the country is heading in the right direction. This result highlights growing unease among the population about the nation’s future.

The survey found that just 11% of Pakistanis think the country’s conditions are improving. People in rural areas seem slightly more hopeful, with 12% believing in a positive change, compared to only 8% of urban dwellers. However, optimism has decreased compared to last year, when 18% of citizens were hopeful. This drop reflects a rising sense of pessimism about the country’s direction.

Key concerns dominate the minds of Pakistanis citizens. Inflation stands as the biggest worry, with 33% of respondents expressing concern over rising prices. Many people struggle to afford basic necessities, making inflation a critical issue. Unemployment comes in as the second most pressing concern, with 18% of respondents feeling the impact of joblessness. Additionally, 11% of people cite the rising cost of electricity as a major financial burden.

Other significant concerns include poverty, which 9% of respondents mentioned, and electricity load shedding, identified by 7% of citizens. The devaluation of the Pakistani rupee worries 3% of respondents, while corruption remains a concern for 2% of the population. Additionally, 1% of people believe interference among state institutions is problematic, and another 1% are concerned about food security.

Despite a slight decrease in concern over economic challenges since the beginning of 2024, only 13% of Pakistanis believe the country’s economic conditions are strong. This belief is more common among men, rural populations, post-graduates, and wealthier individuals. However, the percentage of people who view the economy as weak has increased by 1%, indicating growing economic instability.

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A staggering 94% of respondents admit that they find it very difficult to afford common household items, highlighting the severe financial pressures on the average Pakistani family. Additionally, only 10% of people feel confident about saving enough money for their children’s education and marriage after retirement, underscoring widespread financial struggles across the country.