Strengthening Federalism in Pakistan: 18th Constitutional Amendment and the Case of Baluchistan

Abstract

After independence in 1947, the newly born state of Pakistan faced challenges of national
integration. The political philosophy of federalism paved the way for a solution to this test but has
failed to manifest itself ultimately. After the promulgation of 1973 constitution, the demand for the
provincial autonomy and abolishment of concurrent list by the smaller provinces remained a bone
of contention between the center and provinces. Subsequent military operations and insurgencies
in Baluchistan further aggravated the already tense situation. The 18th Constitutional Amendment
with its aims and objectives, strived to strengthen this political philosophy by undoing some effects
of the central rule over provinces. This paper tries to examine the functioning of federalism and
constitutional history of Pakistan focusing on Baluchistan as an example for the federal-province
relationship. This research is qualitative in nature. The 18th Amendment is discussed thoroughly
hence analyzing the extent of the Amendment in strengthening Federalism.