**Pakistan’s Passport Ranking Continues to Decline**
In a report released by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Pakistan has slipped further down its ranking, dropping from 95th in 2020 to 101st globally. This decline is attributed to various factors, including increased security concerns and rising tensions with neighboring countries.
According to the ISO’s Global Passport Ranking, which assesses a country’s passport quality based on various criteria such as security features, durability, and ease of use, Pakistan has consistently struggled to meet international standards. Despite efforts by the government to improve its security measures, the country remains vulnerable to threats from extremist groups.
The decline in Pakistani passports’ ranking is not unexpected given the ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, particularly Afghanistan and India. The two nations have been engaged in a long-standing rivalry for regional influence, which has led to increased military spending and heightened security concerns.
In recent years, Pakistan’s passport ranking has fluctuated significantly due to various factors, including changes in government policies and international relations. For instance, the 2017-18 diplomatic crisis between Pakistan and India was marked by a significant decline in Pakistani passports’ global rankings.
The ISO report highlights several areas where Pakistan’s passport quality falls short of international standards. These include:
* **Security features**: The report notes that Pakistani passports lack advanced security features such as holograms, watermarks, and microprinting.
* **Durability**: The report states that Pakistani passports are prone to damage due to their thin paper and limited durability.
* **Ease of use**: The report concludes that Pakistani passports require significant technical expertise to operate correctly.
The decline in Pakistan’s passport ranking is a concern for international travelers who rely on secure and reliable travel documents. As the country continues to navigate complex regional dynamics, it will be essential for policymakers to prioritize security measures and invest in improving its passport quality.
**Source:** International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Based on reporting from Dawn.
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