STABILITY AS A BRAKE IN DEVELOPMENT: ANALYSIS OF THE PARADOX IN PAKISTAN'S PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Concepts of stability in public administration are frequently regarded as the basic norm for ensuring the continuity of governance. However, if they are used within very narrow confines, they might result in limiting innovation, adaptability, and progress. This stability paradox in Pakistan has caused bureaucratic stagnation, inefficiency, and a lack of responsiveness to changing society's needs. This article critiques Pakistan's public administration stability paradox and explains how an overemphasis on stability hinders reform and development. The article illustrates the solution to bureaucratic rigidity through the use of case studies and literature reviews, since these are considered essential answers to such issues in organizational reformation. The analysis thus argues that the efficient empowerment of local governments, integration of digital platforms, and creating a flexible administrative culture can transform public administration from merely a regulatory force to a force for sustainable development. Finally, the article concludes by offering policy reform and structural change recommendations that can take Pakistan out of the iron cage of stability.