Opie SO MiNaltis Aoril 201¢ Oihe ‘Mouthpiece of freedom and libertyThe Pluralist’s Note ‘The pluralist isthe voice of unspoken words which will bridge the schisms which keep us apart on the basis of race, religion and geography. We intend to present a picture of the world which highlights all colors of freedom and liberty. During the history of mankind, men have been at war with men, The clash of the essence of our intellect has always resulted in defeat of humanity itself. Our differences and conflicting interests have always remained like hanging swords of Damocles over our heads. The grave concern of this era, indeed, is our ‘unmatching priorities. And this is an acid test for tolerance of human civilization. Our team of Pakistani and American writers aims at exploring new horizons of cooperation and unification of our ideas for the sake of finding prudent solutions to pressing challenges. This bilateral effort will not only enhance understanding between Pakistan and United States but it will also promote the cause of freedom and liberty across the world, Regards, Attaullah Khan, Chief Editor, The Pluralist‘Vino Palliat, 207 Contents The Afghan Imbroglio ‘Atallah Khan. Let's Understand Each Other Ben Gibson inevitable for Women Open Letter to the People of the World ‘The Plurals. USAID and Energy Crisis of Pakistan ‘Amid Khan Paces and Photo ofthe MonthTSA diegette wetcan bring peace in Afghanistan: Ours is the era of multifaceted challenges. The complex nature of modern international system has left the stakeholders unable to find durable solutions to ATTAULLAH KHAN hie tor, The Prats volatile and pressing security situations. Since the end of the cold war, the world is facing new threats. The modem psychological warfare and trans-boundary terrorism has pushed the international community into a tight corner. J Since 9/11 Uncle Sam has spent nearly $5 trillion on war on terror in Afghanistan and Iraq and still we have to take further actions for dismantling Taliban's hydra headed network. The Afghan quagmire is not only a threat to the regional freedom and liberty but itis also a constant source of anxiety for USA and its allies. The rehabilitation of war torn Afghan society and its ramshackle infrastructure must be a shared goal as itis in evitable for regional peace and stability. ‘Trans-boundary terrorism is a common issue of all sovereign states. The fragile security ituation in Afghanistan has been considered time and again by USA, Pakistan, China and‘Afghan Government itself. Similarly, Russia and Iran are also keen to ensure stability in Afghanistan as they have their own interests in the region Russia, china and Iran attempted to establish ties with Afghan Taliban for convincing them for peace talks with the Afghan government. Unfortunately, no such attempt has resulted in promising outcomes. What is the core reason behind this unending violence? Till when Afghan imbroglio will define our foreign policies? Will it end? These are the core questions. USA, being as a chief manipulator of Afghan affairs, can play a crucial role in the settlement of Afghan conundrum. The ‘Trump administration's Afghan policy is still unclear. However, they should seriously consider the stay of US forces in Afghanistan as itis the need of the hour. We should not let the history repeat itself. In 1990s, after the Russian forces departure, Afghanistan fell in the hands of an extremist ethnic roup. Thus the lawless conditions of Afghan soil played havoc with the peace and stability of the world, Al-Qaeda concentrated and organized in the region and declared an unending war against everyone who challenged their Draconian laws. Bias Sse Once again, Taliban are reorganizing and getting stronger. They are influential in five ‘Afghan provincial capitals: Kanduz, Balgh, Lashkargah, Tarinkot and Farah. According to a certain estimation they have controlled 410% of Afghan population. Their control has undoubtedly increased during the past four years. The novice Afghan government and their poorly equipped and untrained military would be miserably failed without the US military presence in the region. ISIS. is another growing threat in the region. If unchecked, they might make another devilish plot lke 9/11. The unending conflict of Afghan soil needs reconsideration. It needs concerted efforts of US, Europe and regional powers to fix the Issue on sustainable basis. President Trump's secretary of defense, James Mattew, Is a veteran and he has firsthand experience of ‘Afghan conundrum. US should integrate the military and intelligence capabilities of Russia, China, Pakistan and Afghanistan for eradication of terrorism in the region. Similarly, Iran should be integrated in thi program as it is an immediate neighbor of ‘Afghanistan. Terrorism in the region can only be eradicated if all the regional stakeholders reach on mutual consensus.ee Dialogue with Afghan Taliban is inevitable and a successful peace talk can cut the Gordian knot. The key question is “What does Afghan Taliban want? “. Will they be hell-bent on imposing their barbaric doctrine? if so, will Afghan society get compatible with their heinously modified version of Islam? History is evident that an undemocratic and autocratic regime always ended up in a mess. We know about the Violence practiced during the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and Tribal areas of Pakistan. People found it impossible to live a normal life under Taliban's rule. However, settlement of dispute between the government and Taliban would allow the Taliban to work under the authority of existing government. It will liberalize and dilute the stridency of Taliban's doctrine. Another important task is to resolve the conflicting interests of regional countries. ‘The acrimonious Pak-indian relations will hamper the peace process in Afghanistan. Similarly, the unfriendly Pak-Afghan relations are another hurdle to peace in the region. Therefore, the great powers should prioritize the conflict resolution among these states. Similarly, Pakistan must bring reforms in 3 Federally Administrated Tribal Areas which is, ‘a Pushtun ethnic belt on Pak-Afghan border. The story of unending violence in ‘Afghanistan is a nightmare and it has created a chaotic situation. Therefore, it needs constant surveillance, concerted efforts and intelligence sharing to bring sustainable peace in the region. The immediate withdrawal of the US forces from the region ‘may lead to another catastrophe. Therefore, it is better that US stay in Afghanistan till the country gets stable, Listen with ears of tolerance. See through the eyes of compassion.Speak with the language of love. RumiThe United States of America occupies a well-known position in the world asthe pinnacle superpower both in military industry, and economy. Each of these itions imbue the United States with a great responsibility to the rest of the world in terms of ensuring humanitarian causes are championed and global harmony is maintained. As a democratic republic, US citizens represent a unique role in these responsibilities in that they freely elect representatives who make decisions that will affect policy both within the US, and globally. The recent presidential election has generated worldwide concern as to how the US will proceed on issues like human rights, trade, international relations, and most frequently discussed, immigration policy. The newly elected administration 4ee ut a travel ban into effect shortly after taking office, effectively barring millions of people from seven of the most desperate, war-torn countries in the world, from taking refuge in the United States. The president wants to build a 1000-mile long wall across the United States and our neighbor to the south, Mexico. All of this on what by most accounts, appears to be a relatively benign threat of terrorism. America’s Statue of Liberty is a symbol recognized around the world of our stance on foreigners coming to this country. ‘The plaque on the bottom of it reads: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest- tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"From an _ insider's perspective, the US public’s attitude toward these words has recently become ‘more complicated. Many, if not most US citizens, are proud of our country’s heritage relating to the acceptance of peoples of all faiths, castes, and cultures. The election of Donald Trump as 5 president has shone the light on a surprisingly large number of citizens who seemingly value nationalism over that heritage. While a consensus on motivating factors varies, it’s generally accepted by both sides of the issue that national security plays the most prominent role. The two most common arguments heard in favor of the ban are: 1) We need to keep Americans safe, This, of course, ignores the stark reality that refugees pose virtually no threat whatsoever to US citizens. The Cato Institute recently released data showing that Americans have a infinitesimally small 1 in 3.6 billion chance of being killed by a refugee. (Cato.org, 2017). It also ignores the already intensive and thorough vetting procedures that any refugee must pass before entry to the US is granted. 2) We need to worry about homeless Americans and veterans. before worrying about people in other countries. This is an ideological issue which makes it far more difficult to argue. Here are some facts though: In 2015, the VABias Sse (Veteran’s Administration, the US lives. It is my sincerest hope that through body that services military retirees ongoing communication _through. and veterans) spent over $167 mediums like this, and a seeking, in billion on veteran services. earnest, to understand each other, that US (hups://www.va.govivetdatwexpe citizens will begin to realize the immense aditures.asp). According to the privilege of fellowship they could share GAO Governmental ith their brothers and sisters of the Accountability Office) just short orig, “Then, we might begin to build a of $2.9 billion was allocated 10 PEs here walls give way to bridges, various homeless. programs : round the country in 2011, Wa" gives way to peace, and hate gives (qovenyinsightaarp. By way tolove. contrast, the US spends around $582 million on its refugee program. Combined, we spend nearly 300 times as much on our |) Hen} evil men} plot, (good own citizens who already have vast access to basic necessities, unlike the Syrians, the Sudanese, or the people of Yemen. All of this, I believe, is the result of a grand misunderstanding of the nature of our situation. Many people in America have lived in a privileged bubble for their entire lives. They have no real concept of what life is like in other countries. They don’t know that in places like Libya, Iraq, and Iran, that most of the population is {just like they are. Yearning only to work, raise families, and live happy, fulfilling men must plan. When evil men burn and bomb, good men must build and bind. When evil men shout ugly words of hatred, good men must commit themselves to the glories of love. Dr Martin Luther KingWomen shape societies. Their role is crucial for the progress and development of a nation. However, women cannot beside by side with males for the development of a nation unless they are cognizant of their rights. Awareness comes with proper education. Unfortunately, the high literacy ratio among females of developing nations is one of the major causes of their downtrodden condition. Poverty, gender discrimination, cultural barriers and lack of female teachers are among the significant impediments in providing equal opportunities of education to females. Iliteracy among females has made them more vulnerable to violence and discrimination. iterate women are unable 7 INEVITABLE FOR WOMEN to participate in rehabilitation of a society. According to an estimation "of the 774 million adults who still cannot read or write, ‘two thirds of them are women." Similarly, misinterpretation of religion has effectively contributed to the ignorance of women. Unfortunately, we are unable to get the true essence of Islam and we have restricted the education of girls. That is why the Taliban blew up girls’ schools in different incidents of terrorism. Similarly, the increasing poverty ratio has constrained women's education. Our people prefer to educate boys over educating girls. Furthermore, the coeducation and cultural barriers have developed a psychological complex in our people and they are reluctantto send their girls to schools. The male dominancy and their mindset of considering ‘a woman his property is another key factor Which contributes to female literacy Ignorance is the epitome of barbarism, and it multiplies the misery associated with poverty. Ignorance impacts men and women differently. Its impacts on women are more severe than on men. Emancipation of women from the slavish societal bonds is only possible when we ensure proper programs for enhancing their literacy and technical skills. Thus we would be able to ensure women's empowerment. Education for all is the only way to ensure empowerment of women. New schools for girls should be established on the basis of the ongoing national census in the country. ‘The government must take solid steps to ensure enrolment of women at higher education level. Additionally, voting rights of women should be further enhanced and secured and their representation in the government should be increased. Lieut Pad \ision_o rit Living in hope Is the foulty of sight Putting 10 use with all of ones might. The powers of the mind 4 genuine fove for all of mankind An image, a concept a range of view as fresh as that of the morning dew. A symbolic depiction the ultimate destruction of evil, and triunnph of good. A disclosure easily understood. ving tn hope Tearning t0 cope The faculty of sight. Putting 10 use the powers of the mind, 44 genuine love for all of mankind. Flourishing in a vigorous way What more 1s there left 10 say? A Usion of Prosperity, fas filth, takes heart, and prays. For the sriungh it portrays. By Lorri Trent, Kansas city, Untied Statesee “An Open Letter to the Nations of the World” The agenda of conservation of environment has been set time and again at different domestic and international levels. However neither it has been implemented in its true spirit nor we are seriously considering its enforcement. The green house gases are playing havoc with tlobal environment. Climate change has created a cataclysmic situation. Despite of its disastrous impacts, we have not considered the issue in all its bearings. Combating climate change is the first ‘and foremost duty of every citizen of the planet earth. Everyone irrespective of his nationality, gender and religion is responsible for playing his role. Today, we are recording highest temperatures in different regions of the world. The rapidly ‘melting glaciers, rising sea levels, floods and droughts are resulting in chaos. The ecology of the planet earth has been badly disturbed. These upheavals have ruinous impacts on socio- economic sphere of human life. Our health, economy and even existence is at risk. This isthe high time to recognizing climate change as the burning question of the day. | perceive it as white collar terrorism. It is @ cross border issue and requires a global action plan to resolve it. This is the need of the hour to bring 9 scientists, politicians, sociologists, economists and diplomats on a single platform to realize the {gravity ofthe issue. This s the war of our survival ‘and we have to win it. | have a dream that one day all people on the ‘earth will breathe in a clean environment and global warming will no more be a threat. 1 request the people of the planet earth that lets join hands together for tackling the menace. Let's find innovative solutions to the issue. | am a staunch believer in the idea of international court ‘on environment. Every law needs an organized mechanism for its implementation. international court on environment will be of great help in this regard, Atleast it will provide basis for advancing the legal system of recognizing environmental crimes. We are advancing our industrial setups at the cost of world environment. Therefore, we have to compensate the damages by every possible means. ‘Similarly, the scourge of deforestation has left no stone unturned in destroying the earth’s ecology. | equally focus on this aspect. There must be 2 universal treaty among the nations of the world that every student must plant a tree on the occasion of his annual promotion to next grade. One child one tree is the need of the hour ‘and this concept will help the new generations to realize the worth of global environment. Regards, The PluralistUSAID AND ENERGY CRISIS USAID and Energy Crisis USAID and Pakistan are working together to help Pakistan meet growing energy demands and to alleviate the country’s energy crises. USAID has supported infrastructure and operational improvements, and promoted policy reforms to help the energy sector function more efficiently and sustainably. Nearly 33 million Pakistanis have benefited from USAID's efforts since 2011 to add more than 2800 megawatts of electricity to the national grid. This total includes 1,013 megawatts from new rehabilitated dams and thermal power plants, and 1,791 megawatts from improvements in the transmission and distribution system. Customers are receiving more accurate energy bills as a result of USAID's efforts to install or repair over 250000 digital meters. Improving the Power System Generation of Electricity: USAID funded renovations of Tarbela Dam in Khayber Pakhtunkhwa, the Jamshoro and Guddu Thermal Power Plants in Sindh, and the Muzaffargarh Thermal Power Plant in Punjab which generates 978 MW _ of electricity. Additionally, Satpara Dam in Gilgit Baltistan and Gomal Zam Dam in South Waziristan generate an additional 35 MW of electricity, help to mitigate floods, store water for irrigation, and provide millions of gallons of water for use per day. The rehabilitation of Mangla Dam is currently in Progress. 10ee USAID worked with power distribution ‘companies (DISCOs) to improve management systems, upgrade equipment, and to maintain the distribution network. DISCO improvements recovered 212 megawatts of electricity and saved over 429 Million Dollars. By repairing and replacing the aging equipments, which includes transformers, Circuit's breakers and transformer cooling fans- USAID programs, have increased transmission capacity by 1,791 MW. USAID Power Distribution Program: USAID Power Distribution Program was a five-year (2011-2015) USAID funded program which had worked jointly with the Govt. ‘owned electric power distribution companies In Pakistan to reduce losses and improve revenues, customer service and commercial performance. Through that program USAID provided assistance and support to the Government of Pakistan in its efforts to reform the power sector and eradicate corruption and power shortages from WAPDA offices. We are unable to get maximum benefit of the USAID funded projects for a number of reasons. USAID POP staff was working in MEPCO and PESCO simultaneously to end corruption from WAPDA and to improve the revenue and decrease the losses to WAPDA. The most important task of USAID staff was to work against the electric theft. The ai consultants who were hired by USAID were Biven the task of identification of direct hhooks (Direct hook is a mechanism used for electric theft). For that purpose they were given cameras which would help them take photo of the scenes where hooks were connected. USAID staff have conducted ‘operations against direct hooks on almost a daily basis in different areas of Peshawar with the help of local WAPDA staff to identify the culprits. This practice was quite successful as more than 100 people were arrested in the cases of direct hooks which hhad paid more than 10 millon rupees to ESCO. However , overtime, the efficiency of the project decreased. The reason was crystal clear that local WAPOA staff was involved directly or indirectly to make that process least efficent. USAID POP staff also worked to recover deferred payments from the deferred consumers. Those consumers who were not paying their electric bills for more than four months were targeted. That way more than ‘one milion recovery was made on a daily basis. This effort was also, later on, underestimated by the WAPDA officials. They discredited the USAID staff for that recovery by claiming that the actual recovery was ‘made by the PESCO staff. Their reason for the under estimation was that WAPDA officials and WAPDA union in particular were against USAID as they were worried about the privatization of WAPDA.Dieta tie ie eine USAID POP worked to improve billing system of electric bills. For that purpose, meter readers were trained by the POP staff for the newly introduced Hand Held Unit (HHU). By the help of this device meter readers will record the accurate reading and the consumers will get a bit relief from the overbilling. Unfortunately, most of the meter readers in WAPDA are either least educated or they are too old to operate the device effectively. Thus, they are reluctant to change. WAPDA staff is not in favor of HHU. ‘They claim that this way WAPDA will go into losses if they will not overbill their Another reason for resisting to is that it will imit their corrupt practices as the HHU device will compel them to take a picture of the actual reading of every meter which is totally against their will and intentions. WAPDA union is reluctant for this device to be operated, however, the device is operating right now in almost all sub division of PESCO but still the results are not according the expectations. Still there is overbilling, corruption and misuse of the device, While bringing infrastructural changes to the energy sector is a good step but at the same time a very low concentration towards “check and balance” in the ongoing implemented projects of USAID will not help to give that much benefits to the energy sector in general and to the consumers in Particular. For these projects, to become more efficient, there must be a proper check ‘and balance by the USAID authorities. The employees who are hired from local side must be competent individuals and the recruitment process should be made more transparent. USAID should hire Managers who are not only skilful and competent but devoted as well. The equipments which are provided by the USAID must be of good ‘quality so that general masses could get real benefits out of it. There must be 2 proper check on the contractors who are supplying equipments for the USAID _ projects. Departmental corruption must be picked and cured because; unless there is corruption in various departments in WAPOA infrastructural changes, it would just mean “old wine in a new bottle’. The monthly salaries for WAPDA staff must be increased 0 that they could fulfil their basic needs ‘and not compel themselves for getting bribes from the culprit consumers. WAPOA employees are getting very low salaries despite the fact that most of them have spent more than two decades in their jobs. ‘As a result they are involved in corruption ‘and malpractices. USAID is now working on new energy projects and we are hopeful that together we ‘can overcome the energy crisis in Pakistan. Amiad. mail.com ‘Amjad Ali Former, Field Auditor, USAID PDD (2013- 2015) 12Painting of the Month by Jamil Ahmad Photo of the Month; Gees (Plantation event at Tower Dir KK,OUR TEAM Write for us Chief Editor Write on any topic related to international Relations, Politics, Education, Philosophy, Science, Ben Gibson Literature and Culture which ee offer innovative solutions to our shared challenges . Catherine Harrison Proofreader The Pluralist Ed Municipal inter College Wazir Bagh Peshawar Pakistan, Ef Wunfacebook com/The Pluralist K 1922015959541 © The_Puraist@yaheo.combiretaielse: ones