Accomplishments and Challenges of Pakistan’s Fight against Violent Religious Extremism: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to critically analyze challenges faced by Pakistan in preventing and countering violent religious extremism (CVRE) and its accomplishments. The religious notions of identity formation are embedded in Pakistan’s foundation since its birth. In the post-partition domestic politics, the apex political leadership, religious factions and right-wing political parties spread their own brand of religion that instigated radicalization, extremism and violence, causing threat to its homeland security. In Pakistan violent religious extremism is a phenomenon i.e. multi-faceted and multi-layered, in which not only internal but external actors are also involved making the situation even more complicated. The fight against religious extremism has been an uphill task for the state authorities. The paper analyzes the various measures taken to curb the on slot of violent extremism which includes the review of National Action Plan and the military operations at various times. The paper concludes by suggesting recommendations to curtail the ongoing menace of violent religious extremism.