ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis are most concerned about rising national debt and soaring electricity and gas prices, according to the first National Citizen Survey 2026 released on Monday.
The survey found a significant gap between citizens’ concerns and the government’s federal spending priorities.
The Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) organised the Citizens’ Roundtable where researchers presented the findings. The Institute for Public Opinion Research (IPOR) independently conducted the survey.
Rising Debt Emerges as Major Concern
The survey showed that 66 per cent of respondents considered Pakistan’s rising national debt a serious concern.
Around 49pc described the issue as “extremely concerning”.
The findings also highlighted the scale of federal debt servicing. Of the Rs18.771 trillion federal budget, 42.9pc goes towards debt servicing.
That amount exceeds spending on defence, health, education, pensions and subsidies combined.
By comparison, the federal government allocates only 0.1pc of the budget to health.
Researchers said the gap between public priorities and government spending appeared across provinces, urban and rural areas, income groups and age groups.
Electricity and Gas Prices Top Public Concerns
Rising electricity and gas prices emerged as the most frequently cited problem in the survey.
Around 19pc of respondents identified higher utility prices as Pakistan’s biggest issue.
The rising cost of everyday goods also ranked among the leading concerns. Unemployment came third.
The findings indicate that household expenses remain a major source of pressure for citizens.
Businesses Face Major Challenges
The survey also highlighted concerns about Pakistan’s business environment.
Around 91pc of respondents said it was difficult to start or operate a business in the country.
Taxes emerged as the biggest obstacle for businesses.
The survey also found widespread concern over the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.
Around 68pc of respondents said the IMF programme was either harmful or provided no benefit to ordinary citizens.
Meanwhile, 60pc said Pakistan’s education system did not meet the requirements of a modern economy.
Public Trust in Institutions Remains Low
The survey found a significant trust deficit among citizens.
No major public institution received complete trust from a majority of respondents.
Only 15pc said they had complete trust in Parliament. The revenue department received complete trust from just 13pc.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) recorded the highest level of confidence at 33pc.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) followed with 23pc.
Survey Highlights Corruption Concerns
The findings also provided first-hand data on corruption.
Around 18pc of respondents said a government official had personally asked them for a bribe during the previous year.
The figure highlights the public’s concerns about corruption and its impact on everyday interactions with government departments.
Social Media Gains Public Trust
The survey also found changes in how Pakistanis consume news.
Around 42pc of respondents said they trusted social media more than television for news.
However, 56pc blamed the internet for contributing to declining social values.
Furthermore, 79pc considered the rising use of drugs in Pakistan “extremely dangerous”.
Concerns Over Foreign-Funded Reports
The survey also examined public perceptions of foreign-funded NGOs and think tanks.
Around 43pc of respondents viewed reports by such organisations as either exaggerated, contrary to facts or driven by a foreign agenda.
By comparison, 25pc considered such reporting fact-based.
Survey Covered More Than 5,000 Citizens
IPOR conducted 5,155 face-to-face, in-home interviews between August 23 and September 5, 2026.
Researchers used a four-stage stratified sampling method covering all four provinces.
The sample included 60pc rural and 40pc urban respondents. It also covered major age, gender and income groups.
Mamoon Bilal, Executive Director of PILDAT Consulting, delivered the opening remarks at the event.
IPOR Executive Director Tariq Junaid presented the survey methodology and findings.
Experts from academia, think tanks, the judiciary, the legal profession and the media also attended the Citizens’ Roundtable to discuss the results.
