Prof. Dr. Abdullah Arijo

In an era where visibility often supersedes substance, societies worldwide are contending with a burgeoning culture of performative gestures, extravagant celebrations, public displays of generosity, and symbolic awards that frequently obscure genuine contributions. While these practices might seem innocuous or even celebratory at first glance, they often incur significant costs not just financially, but also in terms of diminishing merit, eroding public trust, and compromising institutional integrity. This article examines the issue of unnecessary expenditures, especially those financed by public resources, and advocates for a more principled and accountable approach to governance.

The Rise of Performative Generosity

In numerous communities, it has become increasingly common to observe individuals hosting extravagant events such as cake-cutting ceremonies, award distributions, or public receptions, ostensibly to honour achievements or celebrate milestones. However, a closer examination often reveals that these occasions are less about genuine recognition and more about self-promotion. Social media platforms amplify these spectacles, transforming them into instruments of instant fame. A photograph featuring a certificate or a trophy, widely shared online, can create the illusion of accomplishment, even when the underlying merit may be questionable.

The phenomenon of performative generosity is not inherently problematic when it is privately funded. Individuals are free to celebrate in whatever manner they choose, as long as they cover the associated costs themselves. The genuine concern emerges when such activities are financed with public funds that belong to the people and are intended for their welfare.

The Misuse of Public Funds

Public funds are a sacred trust gathered from citizens with the expectation that they will enhance infrastructure, provide essential services, and support marginalized communities. Diverting these funds to unofficial activities such as unnecessary award ceremonies or promotional campaigns violates that trust.

In numerous instances, individuals who have not made significant contributions to society receive certificates, shields, or titles, often at the public’s expense. These awards are frequently granted not for merit, but rather due to personal connections, political affiliations, or the intention to preserve positive public relations. This practice not only squanders valuable resources but also diminishes the morale of those who are genuinely dedicated to making a difference.

The Impact on Society

The consequences of such practices are far-reaching:

Erosion of Meritocracy: When recognition is bestowed without genuine merit, it undermines the achievements of those who have truly earned it. This phenomenon can discourage hard work and innovation, particularly among young people who seek role models rooted in integrity and accomplishment.

Public Distrust: Citizens may begin to question the motivations of their leaders and institutions when they witness public funds being allocated for superficial purposes. This scepticism can lead to disengagement from civic processes and a deterioration of democratic accountability.

Resource Misallocation: In areas where essential services such as education, healthcare, and clean water remain inadequate, spending on non-essential events is not only irresponsible but also unethical. Every rupee spent on a decorative award could have been invested in purchasing books for students, providing medicines for clinics, or supplying clean drinking water for communities.

Cultural Distortion: In societies that cherish traditions of humility, service, and community, the emergence of self-congratulatory displays can distort cultural values. The focus transitions from collective progress to individual glorification.

The Role of Government

Governments have a critical role to play in curbing unnecessary expenditures, especially those that misuse public funds. Several steps can be taken to address this issue:

1. Policy Clarity: Clear guidelines must be established to distinguish between official and unofficial activities. Public funds should only be used for events that serve a demonstrable public interest and align with institutional mandates.
2. Transparency and Accountability: All expenditures, especially those related to public events and awards, should be transparently documented and made accessible to the public. This allows citizens and watchdog organizations to scrutinize spending and hold officials accountable.
3. Merit-Based Recognition: Awards and honours should be granted through transparent, merit-based processes. Independent committees comprising experts and community representatives can help ensure fairness and credibility.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens about the value of public funds and the importance of responsible spending can foster a culture of accountability. When people understand that public money is their money, they are more likely to demand its proper use.
5. Encouraging Simplicity: Governments can lead by example, promoting modesty and substance over spectacle. Simple, meaningful recognition of achievements—without unnecessary pomp—can reinforce values of humility and service.

The Responsibility of Citizens

While governments bear the primary responsibility for managing public funds, citizens, too, have a role to play. It is essential for individuals to:

Question and Critique: When they observe public money being used for questionable purposes, citizens should raise their voices through appropriate channels, be it the media, civil society, or direct engagement with representatives.

Promote Ethical Standards: Community leaders, educators, and influencers must model and advocate for values of integrity, merit, and simplicity. Celebrating genuine achievements without resorting to extravagance can set a powerful example.

Support Reforms: Citizens should support policies and leaders who prioritize transparency, accountability, and public welfare over personal glorification.

Toward a Culture of Substance

The path to a more just and responsible society lies in shifting our focus from appearances to substance. True recognition should be earned, not orchestrated. Public funds should be safeguarded, not squandered. And leadership should be measured not by the number of shields distributed, but by the lives uplifted.

In the end, the question is not whether celebrations or awards are inherently wrong; they are not. The issue is one of intent, funding, and fairness. When recognition is sincere, modest, and privately funded, it can inspire and uplift. But when it becomes a tool for self-promotion at public expense, it corrodes the very foundations of trust and merit.

Let us, as a society, advocate for a culture where dignity is not bought with decorations but earned through dedication. Let us remind our institutions that the true measure of success lies not in how loudly it is announced, but in how deeply it is felt by those it serves.

Read: Why Foreign Firms Are Departing Pakistan

_________________

Abdullah Arijo is a professor and curriculum architect at Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, specializing in Parasitology, fisheries, aquaculture, zoology, and environmental sciences. He is also a civic advocate for climate resilience and sustainable development.

The post Rid Wasteful, Unneeded Expenditures first appeared on Sindh Courier.