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NASCSC Agenda 2
NASCSC Agenda 2
STUDY GUIDE
AGENDA B:
HISTORICAL CONTEXT:
🡪 RISE OF EXTREMISM:
The historical roots of extremism in Pakistan can be traced to geopolitical shifts, regional conflicts, and
ideological influences. The Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s saw the emergence of militant groups, fueled
by external support, laying the foundation for subsequent challenges. The proxy war dynamics during
this period contributed to the proliferation of extremist ideologies and armed factions. [Source: Wilson
Center]
Pakistan's struggle against terrorism aligns with global trends. The impact of international terrorist
organizations, such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban, has been significant. The interconnected nature of
extremist networks poses challenges that require not only national but also international cooperation.
[Source: Global Terrorism Database]
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF COUNTERING EXTREMISM
🡪 CHALLENGES:
Countering extremism in Pakistan is fraught with challenges, including ideological divides, socioeconomic
factors, and the transnational nature of terrorist networks. The Afghan-Pakistan border region has
historically been a sanctuary for various groups, contributing to regional instability. The presence of
Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) underscores the multifaceted challenges faced.
[Source: Combating Terrorism Center at West Point]
🡪 OPPORTUNITIES:
Amidst challenges, opportunities for countering extremism emerge through grassroots initiatives,
educational reforms, and community-driven interventions. Countries like Indonesia and Saudi Arabia
have implemented successful counter-radicalization programs. Learning from these models, Pakistan can
develop strategies tailored to its unique context. [Source: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime]
The interconnected nature of regional security implicates neighboring influences in Pakistan's struggle
against extremism. Afghanistan, in particular, has been a focal point, with the Taliban using border
regions as safe havens. Collaborating with Afghanistan, India, and other neighbors, sharing intelligence,
and fostering regional cooperation are essential components of countering extremism effectively.
🡪 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION:
Empowering communities to actively counter extremism within their midst is a cornerstone strategy.
Learning from programs in countries like Malaysia, where community policing initiatives have been
successful, Pakistan can tailor its approaches to engage communities effectively. [Source: United Nations
Development Programme]
🡪 EDUCATIONAL REFORMS:
Q.A.R.M.A.S:
What historical factors contributed to the rise of extremism in Pakistan?
How does Pakistan's struggle against terrorism align with global trends?
What are the challenges and opportunities in countering extremism, focusing on grassroots initiatives
and educational reforms?
What are the current security strains in Pakistan's efforts to counter extremism, considering evolving
terrorist tactics and external influences?
How do neighboring influences impact Pakistan's struggle against extremism, and what role does
international cooperation play in this context?
Why is community engagement considered a cornerstone strategy for countering extremism, and what
are some successful international examples?
How do educational reforms contribute to countering extremism, and what can Pakistan learn from
countries with successful models?
Why is security and intelligence coordination crucial for proactive measures against extremist threats?
REFERENCES:
Wilson Center