The Spectrum of Research,(ISSN Online: 3106-7808; ISSN Print: 3106-7794) is a multidisciplinary, open-access, quarterly, double-blind peer-reviewed publication. The Journal undertakes to complete the double-blind peer-review process within one (01) month of submission and to duly notify the author(s) of the decision. The Editorial Board, while maintaining academic rigor and integrity, endeavors to provide timely and constructive feedback within the stipulated period, thereby ensuring an efficient and transparent publication process. The Journal is published under the auspices of the Institute of Insight Research [SMC – Private] Limited, a legal entity duly incorporated and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Registration # 0307037.
Institute of Insight Research [SMC – Private] Limited
APPRAISAL OF INFORMAL JUSTICE: DISPUTE RESOLUTION COUNCILS IN CHARSADDA AND NOWSHERA, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA
This study appraises the effectiveness of informal justice mechanisms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by examining Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) in Nowshera and Charsadda districts. It assesses the intervention level of these councils as alternative justice systems and identifies gaps and areas for improving access to justice. Using Restorative Justice Theory, the study argues that informal mechanisms in traditional societies focus on repairing harm, restoring relationships, and reintegrating offenders and victims within their communities.
Button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, therapeutic properties, management of lipid peroxidation, animal model.
WORK-RELATED FLOW, PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL, AND ENGAGEMENT AMONG NON-PROFIT VOLUNTEERS: A GENDER-BASED STUDY
This study examines the relationships between psychological capital, work-related flow, and work engagement among volunteers in non-profit organizations (NPOs), with a focus on gender differences. Psychological capital encompasses self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience; work-related flow refers to deep immersion and enjoyment in work; and work engagement is a positive, fulfilling work mindset. Using a quantitative, correlational design, data were collected from 155 volunteers across various Pakistani NPOs through self-report questionnaires, grounded in the Job Demands-Resources (JDR) model. Results show significant positive correlations among psychological capital, work-related flow, and work engagement. Gender analysis revealed that females reported higher work-related flow and engagement, while psychological capital showed no significant gender difference. This research contributes to understanding volunteer dynamics and supports the development of gender-sensitive policies to enhance volunteering efforts. Limitations include a relatively small sample size, suggesting future longitudinal and qualitative studies to expand these findings.
psychological capital, work-Related flow, work engagement, volunteers, non-profit organizations, job demands-resources model), correlation, gender differences
ASSESSMENT OF EXHAUST VALVE DEBRIS FROM GREEN FUEL COMBUSTION
Used cooking oil (UCO) has shown promise as a short-term alternative fuel for compression ignition engines. To evaluate its long-term effects, this study conducted an endurance test using diesel-UCO blends. Results showed minimal wear on the engine head’s working surface. Among the tested blends, DF60UCO20Pn20—with the lowest cetane number and highest oxygen content—exhibited the shortest combustion time and longest ignition delay. Engine head and exhaust valve deposits were analyzed and compared to those from emulsion fuels. Visual inspection revealed deposits across all fuels, while SEM and EDS analysis showed that DF95UCO5 produced more carbon buildup than both DF60UCO20Pn20 and pure diesel.
Single Cylinder Diesel Engine, used cooking oil, Ternary Blend, Exhaust valve debris
AI IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: POLICY IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
This study examines the relationships among key AI variables—adoption, ethics, governance, and AI-driven decision-making—and their impact on public administration. A survey of 300 participants, including policymakers, public administrators, and technology experts, was conducted to assess attitudes toward AI. Statistical analyses (correlation, t-tests, and ANOVA) revealed notable gender differences, with males showing more favorable views of AI. Perceptions also varied by professional role, with policymakers expressing greater support for AI adoption and ethics than other groups. The findings highlight the need for ethical frameworks, transparency, and capacity-building to address bias and fairness in AI implementation. The study concludes by emphasizing responsible AI integration and the importance of equipping public administrators with the necessary skills to manage AI technologies effectively
Artificial Intelligence, Public Administration, AI Adoption, Governance, Ethics, Decision-Making, Gender Differences, Professional Roles, AI Ethics, Capacity Building, Transparency, AI Impact.
IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS ON NATIVE AMPHIBIAN BEHAVIOR AND SURVIVAL
Amphibians face increasing threats from pollution, habitat fragmentation, temperature shifts, and invasive species, all of which significantly affect their behavior, survival, and ecosystems—contributing to global population declines. This study examines how seasonal changes influence behavior, survival, and physiological responses of various amphibian species exposed to specific environmental stressors in their natural habitats. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative data (e.g., activity levels, mating calls, foraging, survival rates) and qualitative field observations. Data from four species under different stressors were analyzed using ANOVA and survival analysis.Frog Species A: Temperature stress reduced activity (35 movements/day) and mating calls (8 calls/hour; p = 0.03).Toad Species B: Mud pollution significantly lowered call rate (5 calls/hour; p = 0.01).Salamander C vs. N: C was more active in fragmented habitats (40 vs. 24.7 movements/day) with lower mortality (10%; p = 0.02).Frog Species D: Invasive species presence increased activity and calls, but decreased foraging rates. Pollution markers were linked to reduced physiological function.Conclusion: Environmental stressors significantly impact amphibian behavior and health, highlighting the urgent need for targeted conservation and habitat protection strategies.
SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS INFLUENCE ON COGNITIVE EMOTION REGULATION STRATEGIES
This study aims to investigate the relationship between spiritual intelligence (SI) and cognitive emotion regulation (CER) among undergraduate students in Karachi. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study utilized a convenience sample of 220 undergraduate students from various universities in Karachi within a correlational research design. Data were collected using the Spiritual Intelligence Self-Report Inventory (SISRI) and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ) to assess the association between the two constructs. The study further examines whether spiritual intelligence significantly predicts cognitive emotion regulation using linear regression analysis, while correlational analysis is employed to explore the strength and direction of the relationship between SI and CER.
MEDIA REPRESENTATIONS OF ISLAM AND MUSLIMS: THE ROLE OF GEOGRAPHIC PROXIMITY IN ‘OTHERING’ DISCOURSES
This study investigates the discourse of “othering” in relation to geographic proximity within two leading Western print media outlets: The Wall Street Journal (United States) and The Daily Telegraph (United Kingdom). Focusing on the Escondido Mosque fire in the US and mosque attacks in Birmingham, UK, the research explores how geographic location influences the representation of Muslim communities. Using a qualitative methodology, the study applies Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to news content published within one month of each incident—March 24 to April 24, 2019, for The Wall Street Journal, and March 21 to April 21, 2019, for The Daily Telegraph. Findings indicate that The Wall Street Journal portrays Islam in a harsher and more prejudiced manner, often minimizing anti-Muslim actions and employing less critical language toward perpetrators, maintaining a uniform framing irrespective of geographic proximity. In contrast, The Daily Telegraph exhibits a nuanced differentiation among groups within the Muslim identity, with coverage patterns shaped by geographic closeness and spatial positioning relative to the newspaper’s operational base.
IMPROVING HOSPITAL OPERATIONS AND PATIENT FLOW USING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
This policy paper advocates the implementation of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) as a strategic solution to address the critical challenges facing healthcare in Lahore. Public hospitals in the city face severe overcrowding, often operating at over 120% capacity, while trust-based healthcare facilities remain underutilized, with occupancy rates below 75%. To address this imbalance, the paper proposes an integrative PPP model designed to redistribute patient loads, enhance service efficiency, and ensure equitable access to healthcare services. Drawing on successful international PPP examples from Kenya, Lesotho, and Sri Lanka, the paper outlines a three-phase implementation strategy: stakeholder engagement, pilot testing, and scale-up, supported by digital integration and real-time monitoring systems. Key insights from stakeholder consultations highlight operational feasibility, financial incentives, coordination between public and private sectors, quality assurance, and regulatory support as critical considerations. The proposed model seeks to optimize existing healthcare infrastructure, reduce patient turnaround times, and promote inclusive, sustainable healthcare delivery for marginalized communities. If effectively executed, this initiative could serve as a replicable prototype for other high-density urban centers in the Global South.
BORDER MANAGEMENT AND GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES: THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE DURAND LINE
This study examines the Taliban government’s position on Pakistan’s border management policies and the securitization of the Durand Line. With border fencing representing a primary point of contention between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the research explores the Taliban’s response to these measures, their perception of the issue, and potential future actions regarding the Durand Line’s fencing. Given the Taliban’s recent consolidation of power, understanding their stance is critical for assessing bilateral relations and the broader strategic implications for Pakistan-Afghanistan ties. The study employs a qualitative methodology, drawing on both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through 32 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions involving five distinct stakeholder groups, including journalists and Taliban officials. The data were thematically analyzed to identify key patterns and insights. Findings indicate that the Taliban largely maintain a stance consistent with previous Afghan governments, with minor modifications to justify their position. They express strong reservations regarding Pakistan’s border fortification and do not fully recognize the Durand Line as an official demarcation. Nevertheless, the study reveals that the Taliban are open to negotiations with Pakistan, emphasizing border management based on mutual consent and cooperation.
FEMALE CRIMINALITY IN PAKISTAN: SOCIO-ECONOMIC INFLUENCES AND PATHWAYS
The primary objective of this study is to explore the socio-economic factors contributing to female criminality in Pakistan. Over time, women’s involvement in crime has been shaped by industrialization, technological advancements, enhanced communication and transportation, and the pervasive influence of mass media. For this research, thirteen female offenders were purposively selected using a convenience sampling technique, with the inclusion criterion being that their sentences had been formally adjudicated by a court. An interview guide was designed to cover socio-demographic characteristics, criminal history, and social and economic factors, facilitating in-depth interviews. Findings indicate that women engage in criminal activities primarily due to economic hardship, family conflicts, material desire, pursuit of love, and the need to preserve family honor. The study underscores the importance of implementing measures to strengthen women’s socio-economic status and familial roles as a strategy to mitigate female criminality in Pakistan.
ENHANCING SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE AMID GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES: A STUDY OF PAKISTAN’S MANUFACTURING SECTOR
Geopolitical tensions—including trade wars, regional conflicts, and regulatory pressures—have disrupted global supply chains, exposing vulnerabilities, particularly in emerging economies such as Pakistan. Although initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) provide strategic advantages, Pakistan remains susceptible to risks stemming from supplier dependence, geopolitical volatility, and regulatory compliance requirements, including European Union ESG standards, underscoring the need for resilient supply chains. This study investigates the impact of supplier dependence, regional integration, geopolitical risk exposure, and regulatory compliance pressure on supply chain resilience within Pakistan’s manufacturing sector, with a focus on firms in Karachi and Lahore. Employing a cross-sectional quantitative design, data from 144 managers across various industries were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The proposed model explains 60.8% of the variance in supply chain resilience, with supplier dependence identified as the strongest predictor, followed by regional integration and regulatory compliance pressure; geopolitical risk exposure exhibited a lower-than-anticipated effect. Grounded in Dependency, Regional Value Chain, Realist, and Institutional theories, the study provides actionable insights for managers and policymakers. Recommendations include diversifying supplier networks, strengthening regional trade linkages, enhancing risk monitoring systems, and investing in compliance infrastructure. Limitations of the study include the sample size and potential self-report bias.
UNDERSTANDING WRITING ANXIETY AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN
This study explores the impact of writing anxiety among university learners in Pakistan, motivated by participants’ poor writing proficiency. Using qualitative methods, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 students from three universities. Data analysis with NVivo 11 identified key themes revealing that writing anxiety is influenced by multiple factors. The study highlights cognitive anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety as primary contributors to writing difficulties, suggesting these areas as focal points for interventions.
anxiety; writing anxiety; cognitive anxiety; somatic anxiety
BEYOND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SELF-AWARENESS MODEL FOR PREDICTING LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVENESS
This study redefines self-awareness in leadership through a triadic model integrating emotional, cognitive, and social intelligence. Using a novel correlational approach, data were collected from 72 manager-subordinate dyads across diverse organizations in Pakistan. Managers completed two self-assessments two weeks apart, while subordinates rated their leadership using the Leader Behavior Description Questionnaire (LBDQ). Regression analyses showed that only social intelligence significantly predicted leadership effectiveness. Emotional and cognitive intelligence, along with traditional and correlational self-awareness measures, were not significant predictors. Findings emphasize the cultural challenges of assessing self-awareness in high power-distance contexts and support the inclusion of social intelligence in leadership development and evaluation.
MIGRAINE STIGMA, PAIN PERCEPTION, AND TREATMENT SATISFACTION
This study explores the relationship between migraine-related stigma, pain perception, and treatment satisfaction, and examines pain perception as a mediator. Using a correlational design and purposive sampling (N=105), data were collected from hospital outpatients and social media users. Measures included demographic and clinical forms, the Migraine-Related Stigma Scale, the Pain Belief and Perception Inventory, and the Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire. Results showed that stigma was significantly associated with both pain perception (r = .435, p < .01) and treatment satisfaction (r = .420, p < .01). Regression analysis indicated stigma significantly predicted treatment satisfaction (R² = .188), with pain perception partially mediating this relationship. The findings underscore the need to address both stigma and pain perception to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with migraines.
PERSONALITY TRAITS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
This study examines the relationship between university students' personality traits and academic performance in Pakistan, using data from an online survey and the BFI-10 (Big Five Inventory). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that extroversion and neuroticism negatively correlate with academic performance, while openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness show positive correlations. The findings suggest that personality traits significantly impact academic outcomes. Interventions such as self-awareness practices and behavior adjustments may help students leverage or manage their traits to improve academic performance.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND CRIME: EVIDENCE FROM GARHI KHAIRO, PAKISTAN
This study examines the link between socio-economic conditions and rising crime in Garhi Khairo, Jacobabad District, Sindh, Pakistan. Based on resident concerns, it investigates root causes of crime through structured interviews, questionnaires, and literature review. Results show poverty and unemployment significantly contribute to crime, while education, drug abuse, and weak law enforcement show no statistical impact. Limited to Garhi Khairo, the findings suggest that addressing poverty and unemployment may help reduce crime, calling for a reassessment of other assumed factors.
Crime rate, Socioeconomic factors, Poverty, Unemployment, Community perception.
EMPOWERED TO COMMIT: THE IMPACT OF ENABLING CONTROL AND EMPLOYEE EMPOWERMENT
This study examines how enabling control—specifically belief and interactive control systems—impacts employee commitment through employee empowerment in the service sector. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire using convenience sampling from employees of pharmaceutical firms in Karachi, each with at least one year of work experience. The analysis employed convergent inquiry, discriminant validity, and structural modeling techniques. While limited to the pharmaceutical sector in Karachi, the findings highlight a significant positive relationship between enabling control, employee empowerment, and commitment, emphasizing the role of control systems in organizational management. Future studies should explore broader industries and cultural contexts.
THE UKRAINE CONFLICT: A SYSTEMIC AND ESCALATION MODEL APPROACH TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION
This study analyzes the Ukraine conflict through the lenses of the system theory and conflict escalation models to understand its underlying dynamics and explore potential pathways to resolution. The systemic model helps identify the complex interplay of political, economic, and security structures among global and regional actors, while conflict escalation theory traces the intensification of hostilities over time. By mapping key escalation triggers—such as NATO expansion, territorial disputes, and information warfare—the research highlights how the conflict evolved from political tension to full-scale war. The study proposes de-escalation strategies rooted in multilateral diplomacy, trust-building mechanisms, and conflict transformation frameworks. Ultimately, the paper offers a holistic view of the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, balanced power negotiations, and sustainable peacebuilding efforts.
ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCY IN QURATULAIN HYDER’S FIREFLIES IN THE MIST
This study explores the concept of agency through an eco-critical and postcolonial lens in Quratulain Hyder’s Fireflies in the Mist. It examines how the novel constructs “agentic spaces” that challenge oppression, marginalization, and the distorted status of locality. Central to the narrative is the emergence of female agency, particularly through the protagonist, who navigates social constraints to become an autonomous subject. The research highlights how ecological elements in the novel serve as symbolic shelters that support this transformation, culminating in the formation of an “agentic locus.” Ultimately, the study reveals how environmental and social contexts intersect to empower marginalized identities
Agency, Agentic Locus, ecocriticism, postoclonialism, Haider’s Fireflies in the Mist, Female character
ASSESSMENT OF BREAST CANCER KNOWLEDGE AND RISK AWARENESS AMONG NURSES IN A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, and nurses play a crucial role in promoting early detection through patient education. This cross-sectional study assessed breast cancer risk factor knowledge among 609 registered female nurses at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, using stratified random sampling and a structured questionnaire based on Stager's Comprehensive Breast Cancer Knowledge Test. Knowledge levels were categorized as good, fair, or poor. Ordinal regression identified significant predictors of knowledge: nurses from private institutions (aOR = 4.23), those with experience caring for breast cancer patients (aOR = 1.41), those who had received a breast exam (aOR = 1.56), and those who had performed breast exams (aOR = 1.87) were more likely to have good knowledge. Only 35% of nurses demonstrated good knowledge. The findings emphasize the need to strengthen breast cancer education in nursing curricula and provide ongoing clinical training to improve early detection and patient care.
CHALLENGES FACED BY HOME CAREGIVERS OF HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing health concern in Pakistan, with prevalence rates ranging from 12.5% to 29.9%. Home caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis face significant physical, emotional, and informational burdens, which affect both their well-being and the quality of care provided. Objective: To explore the challenges faced by home caregivers attending to hemodialysis patients. Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used. Twelve primary caregivers with direct caregiving experience were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via in-depth interviews, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Five major themes emerged: Physical and daily caregiving challenges (e.g., care fatigue, lifestyle changes) Lack of knowledge and information (e.g., inadequate medication management, need for education) Emotional and psychological stress (e.g., anxiety, feeling overwhelmed) Impact on family dynamics (e.g., disrupted leisure time, shifting responsibilities) Financial strain (e.g., treatment costs, job disturbances) Conclusion: Home caregivers of hemodialysis patients face multifaceted challenges that significantly affect their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Addressing these needs through education, support systems, and policy-level interventions is essential to improve both caregiver and patient outcomes.
Chronic Kidney Disease, Hemodialysis, Caregivers
THE EVOLUTION OF NETSPEAK IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: INTERPRETING MEANING BEYOND WORDS
Netspeak has evolved from early internet forums into a complex digital language marked by abbreviations, emojis, memes, hashtags, and nonstandard grammar. This study explores its trajectory and socio-linguistic significance, highlighting how meaning often extends beyond literal words through context, shared references, and visual cues. Using an exploratory framework, the research reveals that Netspeak reflects shifting communication norms and identity expression in online spaces. Understanding this evolution is key to interpreting modern digital discourse and promoting digital literacy among students and the wider public.
Netspeak; Digital communication; Generation Z; Semantic features; Semiotic features.
APPROACHES TO TEACHING ENGLISH WRITING SKILLS: A TWO-DIMENSIONAL STUDY FROM NAUSHAHRO FEROZE
English writing remains a challenge for students due to limited exposure to modern instructional approaches. This study examines the teaching approaches used by English language teachers in government secondary schools in Naushahro Feroze, focusing on the contrast between product and process writing methods. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected via surveys from 104 students and 32 teachers across eight schools in three Talukas. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings reveal that while teachers are aware of the process approach, they predominantly use the product approach in classrooms. The study recommends integrating process-based writing methods into the curriculum to foster students' creativity, critical thinking, and reduce reliance on rote learning.
Process Approach- Product Approach- Teacher Practice
GEOGRAPHIC PROXIMITY AND MEDIA ‘OTHERING’ OF ISLAM AND MUSLIMS
This study explores how geographic proximity influences media "othering" of Muslims in two major Western newspapers: The Wall Street Journal (U.S.) and The Daily Telegraph (U.K.). Using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), it examines coverage of the Escondido mosque fire (U.S.) and the Birmingham mosque attacks (U.K.) within one month of each event in 2019. The findings reveal that The Wall Street Journal employs more prejudiced language and downplays anti-Muslim actions, maintaining a uniform narrative regardless of proximity. In contrast, The Daily Telegraph shows nuanced distinctions within Muslim communities, with geographic closeness shaping its framing. The study highlights how spatial positioning influences media narratives on Islam and Muslims.
ENHANCING HEALTHCARE EFFICIENCY AND REDUCING HOSPITAL WAITING TIMES VIA PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
This policy paper advocates for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to address Lahore’s healthcare challenges, including severe overcrowding in public hospitals and underutilization of trust-based healthcare facilities. With public hospital occupancy exceeding 120% and trust hospitals below 75%, the paper proposes an integrated model to redistribute patient loads, improve service efficiency, and ensure equitable healthcare access. Drawing on successful PPP experiences from Kenya, Lesotho, and Sri Lanka, the plan includes three phases: stakeholder engagement, pilot testing, and scaling, supported by digital integration and real-time monitoring. Key stakeholder concerns involve operational feasibility, financial incentives, public-private coordination, quality assurance, and regulatory support. The model aims to optimize infrastructure use, reduce wait times, and promote inclusive, sustainable healthcare for marginalized populations, serving as a potential blueprint for other densely populated cities in the Global South.
THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE FENCING OF THE DURAND LINE
This study examines the Taliban government’s position on Pakistan’s fencing and securitization of the Durand Line, a major point of contention in bilateral relations. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered through 32 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions with journalists, Taliban officials, and other stakeholders. The findings reveal that while the Taliban largely maintain a stance similar to previous Afghan governments—expressing strong reservations about the border fortification and rejecting the Durand Line as an official boundary—they show willingness to negotiate with Pakistan on border management based on mutual consent. This research highlights the significance of the Taliban’s position for future Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING FEMALE INVOLVEMENT IN CRIME: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN
This study explores the socio-economic factors driving female criminality in Pakistan. Drawing on in-depth interviews with thirteen convicted female offenders, the research highlights key influences such as economic hardship, family conflicts, material desires, pursuit of love, and protecting family honor. Findings suggest that changes in society, including industrialization and media influence, have also shaped female involvement in crime. The study calls for urgent efforts to strengthen women’s socio-economic status and family support to reduce female criminal behavior in Pakistan.
GEOPOLITICAL INFLUENCES AND SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE: INSIGHTS FROM PAKISTAN’S MANUFACTURING SECTOR
Geopolitical tensions such as trade wars, regional conflicts, and regulatory pressures have exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, especially in emerging economies like Pakistan. Despite advantages from initiatives like the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan faces risks from supplier dependence, geopolitical volatility, and stringent regulatory demands including EU ESG standards. This study investigates how supplier dependence, regional integration, geopolitical risk, and regulatory compliance affect supply chain resilience in Pakistan’s manufacturing sector, based on data from 144 managers in Karachi and Lahore analyzed via PLS-SEM. Results show supplier dependence as the strongest factor influencing resilience, followed by regional integration and regulatory pressures, while geopolitical risk had a lesser impact. Drawing on Dependency, Regional Value Chain, Realist, and Institutional theories, the study offers practical recommendations for diversifying suppliers, boosting regional trade, enhancing risk management, and strengthening compliance frameworks. Limitations include sample size and self-report bias.