Extremism is dying, thanks to Pakistan’s policy makers and security institutions that have played their part in pushing our country away from the swath of extremism that has engulfed this region since long. It started flourishing three, four decades ago and knew no limits, taking thousands of precious lives and causing irreversible harm. Terrorists are dying and so are the ideologies that inspired them to this way of life in the first place. How this has been made possible is a matter of concern for the whole world, as they were not successful in curbing this menace themselves.
The Pakistani version of history talks about extremism and terrorism as something which was never endorsed by society, rather developed using religion as a tool. Developed countries have always blamed religion and third world countries for flourishing extremism and terrorism. Which is simply not possible, considering the resources required to conduct these activities. On the other hand, people from third world countries, and especially Muslims, always blamed the west for using extremism as a tool for furthering their political interests.
People of these regions truly believe that if developed countries resolve not to use extremism for economic and political purposes, then these ideologies will die a natural death. I am not sympathetic to religion, but to be fair it has been used as a tool, like in India, where it is based in nationalism and is heavily influenced by politics.
A very subtle look into steps being taken by Pakistan prove how committed they are in ridding our society of this disease.
Even though the second step will always remain education, and the empowerment of the masses, this first step is absolutely essential as well. Reforms undertaken in our system of communication have also had positive and encouraging results.
People from third world countries, and especially Muslims, have always blamed the West for using extremism as a tool for furthering their political interests
It requires concerted efforts and resolve on the part of world leaders to end this menace. A regular discussions at international forums need to be conducted so as to better understand the causes of extremism and terrorism. This is mainly because people of our region have a different understanding about its various causes than people of developed countries. Our overwhelming majority believes in peace and has always welcomed steps that can bring positive change to our society.
Poverty, illiteracy, sectarianism, financial incentives, political and economic agendas, states rivalries, religion, political ideologies and the need to oppress others are considered to be major causes of terrorism. However, for it to succeed, there needs to be a sizable inflow of capital as well as logistical support, something that almost every Pakistani understands quite well.
So, I appeal to the world, if you want to eradicate terrorism once and for all, do listen to us and give us at least an opportunity to prove ourselves.
The writer is LLB (Hons) (London), Barrister at Law and Advocate High Court.
Published in Daily Times, June 25th 2018.