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1. Pakistan’s Evolving Militant Landscape: State Responses and Policy options

Author:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), Muhammad Amir Rana, and Safdar Sial
Publication Date:
05-2024
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Abstract:
At a time when a major shift is happening in the militant landscape of the country and a political transition is taking place, it is imperative to reevaluate the evolving positions and strategies of not only the militant groups but also the newly formed governments. Against this backdrop, this report seeks to delve into the emerging dynamics of Pakistan's militant landscape and security besides analysing state capacities and responses, along with potential policy shifts post-transition. While much of the research and analyses in Pakistan since Taliban takeover of Kabul has predominantly focused on aspects such as the Taliban regime's governance, Pak-Afghan bilateral affairs, and regional geopolitics, there remains a glaring absence of credible and comprehensive investigations into the broader repercussions of the evolving Afghan scenario on Pakistan's security landscape. Despite periodic headlines on the Pakistani government's negotiations with the proscribed TTP, there has been a dearth of empirical research exploring the overall fallout of Afghanistan's changing dynamics on Pakistan's security. In light of this context, PIPS undertook a firsthand, empirical investigation into the expanding terrorism landscape in the country, scrutinizing the formation of new alliances and networks among terrorist groups, mapping the geographical spread of insecurity and violence, and assessing their ramifications for both domestic and regional security paradigms, among other things. The insights gleaned from this investigation were subsequently utilized to formulate context-specific policy recommendations on how to manage or prevent the negative fallout from evolving Afghanistan situation on Pakistan and the region.
Topic:
Security, Terrorism, Non State Actors, Minorities, and Regional Security
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Afghanistan, and South Asia

2. Towards a shared voice and destiny

Author:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Publication Date:
06-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Abstract:
Hate speech is a major cause of the persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan. Efforts to counter hate speech and promote tolerance are crucial for safeguarding the rights of minorities in Pakistan. It requires a comprehensive approach that includes legal measures, public awareness campaigns, education on diversity and respect, and fostering interfaith dialogue to promote understanding and peaceful coexistence among different communities
Topic:
Religion, Minorities, Hate Speech, Tolerance, and Coexistence
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

3. Tackling the Epidemic of Anti-Ahmadi Hate Speech on Social Media

Author:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Publication Date:
10-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Abstract:
This social media revolution has transformed the way information is disseminated and consumed by mass of people. The social media influences public opinion and shapes political discourse. In Pakistan, while social media has empowered the voiceless by giving them platforms to express their viewpoints, it has also exposed the serious social and political challenges. The impact of social media goes beyond the virtual platforms and affects events in real life. Over the years, social media in Pakistan has become a conduit for spreading religious hatred and intolerance, adversely affecting the already fragile social fabric in the country. Contents targeting religious minorities particularly the Ahmadi community have proliferated, often resulting in physical harassment and violence. This trend not only undermines the values of religious freedom but also endangers the safety and security of religious minorities. Likewise, the historical Shia-Sunni differences have found a new battleground on social media. Platforms are often used to disseminate sectarian hate speech that only exacerbates the tension and sometimes incites violence. The religious and sectarian polarizations are manifested in various forms including misinformation, hostile rhetoric, and virtual confrontations between followers of different faiths and sects. Unfortunately, the extremist ideologies and narratives pushed on social media platforms often lack accountability and contribute to a climate of fear and discrimination against minorities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that involves various stakeholders including government bodies like PTA etc., civil society organizations, and social media platforms. This policy brief aims to outline a cohesive strategy that acknowledges the complexity of these issues and proposes effective solutions. The goal is to leverage the positive potential of social media while mitigating its negative impacts to ensure the protection of minority rights.
Topic:
Human Rights, Minorities, Social Media, Hate Speech, Misinformation, and Polarization
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

4. Tackling the Epidemic of Anti-Ahmadi Hate Speech on Social Media

Author:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Publication Date:
10-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS)
Abstract:
This social media revolution has transformed the way information is disseminated and consumed by mass of people. The social media influences public opinion and shapes political discourse. In Pakistan, while social media has empowered the voiceless by giving them platforms to express their viewpoints, it has also exposed the serious social and political challenges. The impact of social media goes beyond the virtual platforms and affects events in real life. Over the years, social media in Pakistan has become a conduit for spreading religious hatred and intolerance, adversely affecting the already fragile social fabric in the country. Contents targeting religious minorities particularly the Ahmadi community have proliferated, often resulting in physical harassment and violence. This trend not only undermines the values of religious freedom but also endangers the safety and security of religious minorities. Likewise, the historical Shia-Sunni differences have found a new battleground on social media. Platforms are often used to disseminate sectarian hate speech that only exacerbates the tension and sometimes incites violence. The religious and sectarian polarizations are manifested in various forms including misinformation, hostile rhetoric, and virtual confrontations between followers of different faiths and sects. Unfortunately, the extremist ideologies and narratives pushed on social media platforms often lack accountability and contribute to a climate of fear and discrimination against minorities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that involves various stakeholders including government bodies like PTA etc., civil society organizations, and social media platforms. This policy brief aims to outline a cohesive strategy that acknowledges the complexity of these issues and proposes effective solutions. The goal is to leverage the positive potential of social media while mitigating its negative impacts to ensure the protection of minority rights.
Topic:
Religion, Sectarianism, Minorities, Social Media, Hate Speech, and Ahmadiyya
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia