Lahore, June 24 -- Civil society representatives, economists, labour leaders, and rights activists have sharply criticised Pakistan's 2026-27 federal budget, describing it as an austerity-driven plan that places the burden of economic stabilisation on low-income households while neglecting labour rights and gender equality.

In a press release shared on X, HRCP stated that during a seminar organised by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), participants argued that the government's fiscal policies would worsen existing inequalities and further erode living standards for vulnerable communities.

Moderating the discussion, economist Dr Fahd Ali said reduced public spending on education, healthcare, nutrition, and social protection ...