The 18th Constitutional Amendment: A step forward towards Provincial Autonomy in Pakistan

Abstract

The 18th Constitutional Amendment marked a pivotal transformation in Pakistan’s federal structure, significantly enhancing provincial autonomy. This article delves into the multifaceted impacts of the amendment, examining legislative, administrative, and fiscal dimensions of provincial autonomy. The legislative autonomy saw the abolition of the Concurrent List, reallocating 47 entries between federal and provincial jurisdictions, and empowering provincial assemblies with greater legislative authority. Administrative autonomy was reinforced through the amendment of Articles 147, 153, and 154, enhancing the role of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) and ensuring participatory federalism. The article also explores the enhancement of the Senate's role and the National Economic Council’s (NEC) responsibilities in promoting balanced development and regional equity. Fiscal autonomy was significantly bolstered, with provinces receiving a larger share of financial revenues and gaining control over natural resources within their territories. This comprehensive analysis highlights the transformative impact of the 18th Amendment in decentralizing power, fostering cooperative federalism, and promoting provincial empowerment in Pakistan.