AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF POVERTY, CRIME, AND ACCESS TO JUSTICE IN SAHIWAL DIVISION, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Poverty, crime, and access to justice are interconnected social challenges that disproportionately affect marginalized populations in developing countries. In Pakistan, economically deprived communities are more vulnerable to criminal victimization and face significant barriers in accessing formal justice mechanisms, which further entrenches social inequality. Empirical evidence at the regional level, particularly in Sahiwal Division, remains limited.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to examine the relationship between poverty and crime, to assess how crime affects household economic conditions, and to analyse the extent to which poverty influences access to justice among residents of Sahiwal Division, Punjab, Pakistan. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional research design was adopted. Primary data were collected from 500 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize respondents’ socioeconomic characteristics, while chi-square tests were employed to examine associations between poverty status, crime exposure, and access to justice. Data were analysed using SPSS, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The findings revealed a significant association between poverty and crime exposure, with low-income respondents reporting higher levels of victimization compared to higher-income groups (χ² = 26.84, p < 0.001). Crime was found to negatively affect household economic stability through financial losses and increased economic stress. Access to justice was significantly lower among poorer respondents, as low-income crime victims were less likely to report incidents to formal legal institutions due to financial constraints and procedural barriers (χ² = 18.12, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study concludes that poverty, crime, and limited access to justice are closely interlinked and mutually reinforcing in Sahiwal Division. Comprehensive policy interventions targeting poverty reduction, crime prevention, and improved access to affordable justice are essential to break this cycle and promote social equity and sustainable development.