WISPAP calls for urgent action to protect digital workforce

KARACHI: Chairperson of the Wireless & Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) Shahzad Arshad has voiced serious concerns over the persistent internet disruptions affecting Pakistan.

In a statement on Tuesday, Arshad highlighted the challenges faced by internet users due to slow internet speeds affecting both mobile and wireline networks.“The past few weeks have seen a troubling decline in internet performance, severely impacting businesses, educational institutions, freelancers, and essential service providers across the country,” said Arshad. “As chairperson of WISPAP, I am deeply troubled by the ongoing issues and their detrimental effects on our economy and society.”

In its statement, WISPAP acknowledges the government’s need to address security concerns but suggests a more balanced approach. “If filtration systems are deemed necessary, WISPAP recommends creating a whitelist of essential websites, including freelancing platforms and e-marketplaces, to ensure that Pakistan’s digital workforce can continue contributing to the global economy while security objectives are met.”

Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima said on Sunday that the internet slowdown is due to increased VPN usage among people. However, this explanation has not satisfied many stakeholders, who are calling for greater transparency.

Arshad said that while the government has assured that no firewall or filtration systems have been implemented at international gateways, concerns persist about the root causes of the disruptions.

The impact of these internet issues is widespread. Freelancers, who rely on stable internet connections for work on platforms like Fiverr, are facing financial difficulties as their ability to earn is compromised, the statement read.

Students, who have increasingly turned to online education since the Covid-19 pandemic, are also struggling with interrupted studies. Essential service providers, including food delivery, ride-hailing, and cargo services, are encountering operational hurdles due to unreliable internet.

Despite recent improvements in internet speeds, the situation remains far from resolved. Arshad pointed out the undenying importance of reliable internet access in Pakistan’s ambition to lead in digital literacy and technological innovation.

“We urge the government to prioritize resolving these internet issues to keep Pakistan on course to becoming a leading digital economy,” Arshad stated. “WISPAP is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve this critical goal.”