Following Imran Khan's removal via a vote of no confidence in April 2022, a PDM (Pakistan Democratic Movement) coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif of PML-N took power.
The era is defined by severe economic challenges including record inflation, a balance-of-payments crisis, and difficult IMF negotiations; the catastrophic 2022 floods that submerged a third of the country; and unprecedented political polarization.
The February 2024 general elections produced a hung parliament in deeply disputed circumstances, with Shehbaz Sharif returning as Prime Minister heading a coalition government.
Economic Crisis
Pakistan faced one of its worst economic crises, with foreign exchange reserves falling dangerously low, inflation exceeding 38%, and the rupee losing nearly half its value against the dollar. Multiple IMF programs were negotiated.
2022 Climate Catastrophe
The 2022 super-floods, triggered by exceptionally intense monsoon rains supercharged by climate change, submerged nearly a third of Pakistan's total land area. The disaster displaced 7.9 million people and caused damage of approximately $30 billion.
Political Polarization
The post-2022 period has been marked by the deepest political polarization in Pakistan's history, with supporters of Imran Khan and the establishment-backed parties in open confrontation. The February 2024 elections and their aftermath deepened these divisions.
Major Events
- April 2022: Shehbaz Sharif (PML-N) becomes PM heading a PDM coalition
- August 2022: Catastrophic floods submerge 33% of Pakistan; 1,700+ deaths; $30bn damage
- 2022–2023: Record inflation; IMF bailout negotiations; rupee freefall
- 2023: Imran Khan arrested; mass PTI crackdown
- February 2024: General elections held amid controversy; results disputed
- 2024: Shehbaz Sharif returns as PM; coalition government formed
Key Figures
Historical Media
