By Web Desk 
The Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) has issued an urgent plea to the government to address the ongoing internet disruptions that have severely impacted freelancers across the country. Over the past three weeks, slow internet speeds and frequent outages have hindered the work of many freelancers, leading to missed deadlines and significant financial losses.
Tufail Ahmed Khan, President of PAFLA, expressed deep concern over the situation. He noted that Pakistan’s freelancing sector, which generated $350 million in the fiscal year 2023-24, is heavily reliant on stable and fast internet connections. “The current internet issues are not just an inconvenience; they threaten the livelihoods of thousands of freelancers who depend on reliable connectivity to meet client demands,” Khan stated.
He further emphasized that Pakistan’s growing reputation as a hub for skilled freelancers is at stake. “If these disruptions continue, we risk damaging our reputation in the global market. Clients expect timely delivery and professional service, and without a dependable internet connection, we cannot fulfill those expectations,” Khan added.
In response to the concerns raised by PAFLA, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, acknowledged the issues but clarified that the recent slowdowns were primarily due to the widespread use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), rather than any deliberate action by the government. “The increased use of VPNs has strained the network, but we are actively working to improve internet services and ensure smoother operations moving forward,” Khawaja explained.
Minister Khawaja also highlighted the government’s efforts to support the IT sector, including the establishment of a digitization commission aimed at boosting IT exports and further aiding the freelancing community. “This commission will address the broader challenges facing the IT sector, including infrastructure issues, to ensure that Pakistan remains competitive on the global stage,” she said.
The PAFLA’s call to action underscores the critical importance of reliable internet services for the continued success and growth of Pakistan’s freelancing sector. As the country seeks to further integrate into the global digital economy, ensuring stable internet connectivity will be key to maintaining its upward trajectory and supporting the livelihoods of its burgeoning freelance workforce.