Unfinished Agenda of Federalism in Pakistan: An Analysis of Unimplemented Clauses of 18th Constitutional Amendment

Abstract

The provincial autonomy remained the hallmark of constitutional reforms in Pakistan.
Whenever there is an effort to undertake reforms of constitutional nature, it is
highlighted by greater provincial autonomy. This state of affairs is due to the diverse
nature of the country. In view of this, the National Assembly of Pakistan in 2010 passed
a landmark document in the shape of the eighteenth constitutional amendment. This
amendment is significant, it made an attempt to fulfill the long standing demand of the
smaller provinces of the country for greater provincial autonomy. However, after
thirteen years of the passage of this vital document, it is yet to be implemented in letter
and spirit. This research aims to highlight those articles of the constitution which,
though amended through the eighteenth amendment and guaranteeing greater
autonomy to the federating units, yet, there is a question mark on true and complete
implementation. Data and empirical evidence suggests that there are a number of
articles of the constitution which are not enforced. In order to implement this
momentous constitutional document, the study emphasizes on the role of the federal
government.