About TPI

A platform to rethink Pakistan with perspective

The Pakistan Initiative (TPI) is a premier academic and policy platform run by Harvard alumni and students. We aim to shape how Pakistan is understood globally by closing the knowledge, platform, and perception gaps that surround the country.

Vision 2047

Pakistan's Centenary

In 2047, Pakistan will mark 100 years of independence. The Pakistan Initiative exists to ensure that the conversations, research, and coalitions shaping the country's trajectory are grounded in evidence, ambition, and serious engagement.

We believe that by convening the right people, producing rigorous research, and creating sustained dialogue, Pakistan's path to 2047 can be one of meaningful progress - not just survival, but genuine transformation.

The Pakistan paradox

Immense potential, structural risk

Pakistan is at a crossroads. Demographics, economy, climate, and human capital are all at an inflection point. The stakes of getting its trajectory right are generational.

TPI starts from this paradox and asks: what policies, institutions, and coalitions will allow Pakistan to reach 2047 in a way that is stable, prosperous, and just?

Demographics

A population of over 240 million, with roughly two-thirds under 30 - a potential demographic dividend or a looming frustration.

Economy

A large and diversified economy under fiscal stress, but with a growing tech, services, and exports footprint.

Climate

Among the most climate-vulnerable countries, with recent floods affecting tens of millions of people.

Human capital

Millions of children out of school or unable to read at grade level; a young population seeking skills, dignity, and voice.

Our approach

4 pillars of our work

Community & Connectivity

Build a network of students, scholars, practitioners, and diaspora voices who care about Pakistan's future, and keep them connected beyond one-off events.

Research & Policy Impact

Surface and synthesize rigorous work on Pakistan, and channel it into formats that are accessible to policymakers and the public.

Dialogue & Thought Leadership

Curate serious, solutions-focused conversations at Harvard and beyond, shifting the narrative from crisis management to long-term thinking.

Opportunity & Access

Create pipelines for young Pakistanis and Pakistan-focused students to access institutions, mentorship, and platforms.

Looking ahead

Our ambition by 2047

By Pakistan's centenary, TPI aims to be a reference platform on Pakistan: trusted for its research, respected for its convening power, and known for cultivating the next generation of leaders and bridge-builders.

Expand global dialogue on Pakistan's future.
Strengthen research and policy capacity on Pakistan in major institutions.
Create pipelines for young leaders to participate in shaping Pakistan's trajectory.

Leadership