Resurgence and Response: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Strategies amidst Rising Terrorism Threats

Authors

  • Habibur Rahman M.Phil. Sociology at Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, KPK
  • Ahmad Sadiq M.Phil Sociology from Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan
  • Sayed Attaullah Shah Sociology Higher Education Department Govt of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52567/pjsr.v5i04.1329

Abstract

The current review paper critically examines the effectiveness of Pakistan's current counter-terrorism policies in the context of the resurgence of terrorism. This paper is based on a systematic review of the relevant themes and addresses the successes, challenges, and complexity entailed in Pakistan's counter-terrorism measures. The prolonged military campaigns have been instrumental in breaking the backbone of the terrorist group, which has led to a significant decline in the number of events and deaths. Nevertheless, there are still many questions related to the viability of these achievements. Some of the critical challenges include long-lasting stability, reconstruction of regions in conflict, re-emergence of threats from extremists, etc. A significant criticism of Pakistan's counter-terrorism strategy lies in its selectivity when it comes to handling specific militant groups. In addition, the paper also points out the socio-political and economic dynamics that allow for acts of terrorism. These factors are political instability, socio-economic gaps, and regional and international repercussions. It also discusses profound internal security lacunas, human rights issues and financial challenges – the case of Pakistan being put on the Financial Action Task Force's 'Grey list' is raised. The paper concludes that although the counter-terrorism policies in Pakistan have achieved significant successes, adopting a comprehensive strategy to balance security interests and socio-economic development should be blended with human rights considerations. Addressing both external and internal threats is required for proper accountability of the terrorism menace to build lasting peace.

Keywords: Terrorism, Resurgence of terrorism, Counter-terrorism policy, Effectiveness, Pakistan

 

Author Biographies

  • Habibur Rahman, M.Phil. Sociology at Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, KPK

    Scholar

     

     

  • Ahmad Sadiq, M.Phil Sociology from Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan

     

     

     

  • Sayed Attaullah Shah, Sociology Higher Education Department Govt of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

    Lecturer 

     

Additional Files

Published

2023-12-31

How to Cite

[1]
“Resurgence and Response: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Strategies amidst Rising Terrorism Threats”, Pak. J, Soc. Sci., vol. 5, no. 04, pp. 24–37, Dec. 2023, doi: 10.52567/pjsr.v5i04.1329.