Passport: Pakistan

Updated: May 19, 2008

By Amita Parashar

Pakistan is holding parliamentary elections-- if opposition parties come out ahead, President Musharraf's power could weaken. However, voter turnout was low because of recent election-related violence.

The country has made headlines because of the government's instability, media censorship and the assasination of Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister and opposition party leader.

Current President Pervez Musharraf seized power in 1999, but recently gave up his title as Army Chief. Pakistan has been left to wonder who the next leaders will be and if the country will be able to maintain order.

Why should you care? Holding 1/6 of the world's population, South Asia's global influence is quickly growing and its stability affects the rest of us.

Learn more about the current situation as well as the history and culture of Pakistan.