Furqan Ali


Furqan Ali

Furqan Ali is a Peshawar-based researcher and writer on governance, climate, gender, finance and literature; he is also the co-founder of Policy Club. Furqan can be reached at [email protected]

Anaemic Reparations for Symptoms

Furqan Ali

Jan 27, 2026

β€˜π˜π˜Άπ˜΅π˜Άπ˜³π˜¦ π˜™π˜¦π˜’π˜₯𝘺: 𝘐𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘒𝘡π˜ͺ𝘰𝘯, 𝘈𝘣𝘢𝘯π˜₯𝘒𝘯𝘀𝘦 𝘒𝘯π˜₯ 𝘡𝘩𝘦 𝘎𝘭𝘰𝘣𝘒𝘭 π˜šπ˜°π˜Άπ˜΅π˜©β€™ by Uzair Younus wonders if instead of a collapse, we are on the brink of an era of abundance. The author challenges conventional narratives of stagnation and decline, arguing that emerging technologies are not just transforming industries, but redefining how societies in the Global South can eliminate the scarcity of energy, capital and productivity that has held them back for centuries. Furqan Ali takes a closer look at this claim.

Culinary Entanglements: Paye and Peshawar

Furqan Ali

Jan 09, 2026

Nikkay Kay Paye, said to have been established in 1826 in Peshawar, is a favourite haunt for citizens in the colder months. Furqan Ali goes on his annual paye adventure and reflects on the city of Peshawar.

Shelf Life: The Quest to Reimagine Libraries

Furqan Ali

Dec 19, 2025

There are multiple obstacles to transforming public libraries in Pakistan into spaces that can foster a sustainable literary ecosystem. The tragedy unfolds on many levels, ranging from the economic to socio-behavioural aspects. Reinvigorating this crucial public institution requires thoughtful reimagining that puts libraries at the centre of a community.

Can the 11th NFC Bake a Bigger, Fairer Pie?

Furqan Ali

Aug 28, 2025

With the first meeting of the 11th National Finance Commission scheduled for 29th August, 2025, and three previous Awards being inconclusive, Furqan Ali wonders if the upcoming 11th Award will break the curse.