ISLAMABAD — Pakistan has witnessed a significant improvement in its budget transparency, achieving a 50% increase over the past two years. The country’s score on the Open Budget Survey (OBS) by the International Budget Partnership (IBP) rose from 30 out of 100 in 2023 to 45 in 2025, according to Khurram Schehzad, Advisor to the Finance Minister.
What Happened
The latest Open Budget Survey, a globally recognized tool that assesses the transparency of government budgets, has highlighted Pakistan’s progress in making its budgetary processes more open and accessible to the public. The survey, which evaluates the availability of budget information, public participation in the budget process, and the strength of oversight institutions, showed that Pakistan’s score improved significantly from 30 to 45 out of 100. This improvement is attributed to efforts by the government to enhance public access to budget documents and increase citizen engagement in fiscal planning.
Khurram Schehzad stated, “The increase in our OBS score reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability in financial governance. We have made concerted efforts to ensure that budget documents are not only available but also understandable to the general public.” The government has reportedly implemented several reforms aimed at improving the accessibility of budget information, including the publication of simplified versions of budget documents and the use of digital platforms to disseminate fiscal data.
Background
The Open Budget Survey is conducted biennially by the International Budget Partnership and covers over 100 countries. It assesses transparency based on the availability of eight key budget documents, the public’s ability to participate in the budget process, and the role of oversight institutions such as the legislature and the supreme audit institution. Pakistan’s previous scores have been relatively low, reflecting challenges in making budgetary information accessible and engaging citizens in financial decision-making processes.
Historically, Pakistan has struggled with issues of fiscal transparency, which have been compounded by complex bureaucratic processes and limited public engagement. However, recent policy shifts and international pressure have prompted the government to prioritize transparency as a means of improving governance and building public trust.
Why It Matters
Improved budget transparency is crucial for Pakistan as it seeks to strengthen its fiscal governance and enhance public trust in government institutions. Transparency in the budget process allows citizens to better understand how public funds are allocated and spent, thereby fostering accountability and reducing opportunities for corruption. This progress also aligns with international standards and can improve Pakistan’s standing with global financial institutions and investors.
Economically, greater transparency can lead to more efficient allocation of resources, as it enables stakeholders to scrutinize government spending and advocate for more effective use of funds. Socially, it empowers citizens by providing them with the information needed to hold their government accountable, thus promoting democratic governance.
Politically, the improvement in budget transparency can enhance the government’s credibility, both domestically and internationally. It demonstrates a commitment to reform and openness, which can attract foreign investment and aid. For Pakistan, a country that has faced fiscal challenges and external debt pressures, such improvements are vital for sustainable economic growth and development.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan’s budget transparency score improved from 30 to 45 out of 100 in the latest Open Budget Survey.
- The improvement reflects efforts to make budget documents more accessible and increase public participation in fiscal processes.
- Enhanced transparency is expected to foster accountability, reduce corruption, and improve governance.
- Greater transparency aligns with international standards, potentially boosting Pakistan’s global financial standing.
- Improved fiscal governance can lead to more efficient resource allocation and increased public trust.
Source Attribution
This article is based on official government statements, press releases, and public communications from relevant authorities.
