Public sentiment in Pakistan showed a marked improvement in 2025, reflecting a cautious optimism among citizens regarding the country’s economic and social trajectory, according to Khurram Schehzad. Survey results indicate that 31 percent of Pakistanis reported that living standards were improving, more than double the 15 percent recorded in 2023, signaling a significant shift in public perception after years of economic turbulence.
The positive trend extends to economic sentiment as well, with 25 percent of respondents stating that the local economy had improved in 2025, up from 12 percent in 2024. This shift is attributed to a combination of macroeconomic stabilization measures, including a dramatic reduction in inflation from around 40 percent in May 2023 to below 6 percent, a strengthening of the Pakistani rupee, and a rise in foreign exchange reserves. These developments contributed to greater financial stability and renewed public confidence in economic management.
Leadership approval also rose notably, reaching 36 percent, marking the highest level since 2020. Public perception of corruption, while still a concern, has declined from the record highs of 2023, although a significant portion of the population continues to believe that corruption remains prevalent in both government and business sectors. The reduction in perceived corruption, coupled with economic stabilization, has helped improve overall public morale.
Wellbeing indicators among Pakistanis also reflect positive momentum. Around 25 percent of respondents are now classified as “thriving,” compared to 19 percent “suffering,” representing a reversal from the record-low wellbeing levels seen in 2024. This improvement was observed consistently across gender, age, income, and urban-rural demographics, suggesting that the recovery in public sentiment is broad-based rather than concentrated within specific groups.
Khurram Schehzad emphasized that although the public mood is cautiously improving after years of economic crises, political uncertainty, and natural disasters, sustaining this momentum will require continued economic stability, effective governance, and inclusive growth policies. He noted that while citizens are more optimistic about their personal circumstances and the national economy, maintaining trust in institutions and preventing backsliding in economic performance will be critical for long-term confidence.
The survey underscores a key point: public perception is strongly linked to tangible improvements in economic conditions. The combination of lower inflation, a stronger currency, and increased foreign reserves has not only restored financial stability but also fostered renewed hope among citizens about the prospects for growth, employment, and overall quality of life. Analysts suggest that this cautious optimism could translate into stronger consumer confidence, higher domestic investment, and greater engagement in economic activity if the trend continues.
As Pakistan moves forward, policymakers face the challenge of consolidating these gains, addressing persistent issues such as corruption and inequality, and ensuring that economic recovery reaches all segments of society. The improving public sentiment provides an opportunity for both government and private sector actors to capitalize on renewed confidence and build a more resilient, inclusive economy that supports sustainable growth and enhanced wellbeing for all citizens.
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