When I read that in order to make Pakistan a developed nation, PTI might consider following the transparent governance model of Sweden which is actually based on progressive taxation, it really made me feel proud and happy at the same time.
I’m proud I belong to a country which is going to be a role model for my actual homeland.
Now, I would like to highlight a few salient features of the Swedish system which would be great, if adopted by Pakistan.
Did you know that Swedes recycle nearly 100 percent of their household waste?
They even have to import waste to have something to burn, to turn waste into energy. What a true recycling revolution. Imagine what if we only start to manage our garbage or use it sensibly! In Sweden, the system gives you 1.00 SEK or 2.00 SEK (Rs.13 to Rs.26 depending upon the size of the bottle) for each can or plastic bottle you recycle. It’s a refund of a deposit you paid when purchasing the item. This is just one of the reasons the streets are so clean & a wonderful incentive to recycle.
Society is based on progressive taxation
Now the question arises – what is progressive taxation? It is based on the idea that the tax amount increases as the income of the person increases. Thus, a person earning more is accountable to give back more, which is ultimately given to other projects/uplifting of less privileged. What an idea!
Sweden’s attempting to be a greener country
Coming to the transportation system, the Swedish Government imposes an extra tax on roads and cars just to encourage its residents to shift to public transport. It doesn’t only help to make roads free from rush but also as a part of their “Green Country Policy”. Just think for a moment how efficient and effective public transport could make the journey of millions of people hassle-free on an everyday basis!
Technology and education-wise, Sweden’s not too shabby
Talking about the Swedish reforms, it is not only leading from the front in technology but in health and education also. Every resident of Sweden (who has a Swedish ID Card) is entitled to free health benefits after spending 4000 SEK/person/annum (roughly Rs. 54,000). Similarly, free education from 6 years of age to 18 years of age is given to every child. The pay-scale is not ridiculously different between a white collar and a black collar job, hence all jobs are not only respectable, but the income disparity is also negligible.
There are so many things I see here which are truly a blessing. I really wish PTI’s idea of following the Swedish governance system could be real and it ends up benefiting Pakistan. Let’s see how naya Pakistan is about to become.
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Cover image via twitter.com