KP Advisor emphasizes long-term solutions, institutional strength, and societal reforms at KPCVE-UNODC workshop to combat extremism.
PESHAWAR: Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Barrister Dr. Saif, highlighted the growing threat of violent extremism, emphasizing that it is not merely an ideological issue but rather a consequence of various social, historical, economic, and psychological factors. He stressed that countering extremism requires more than just security measures; instead, a long-term and comprehensive strategy is needed, developed with the coordination of all relevant institutions and stakeholders. He expressed these views while addressing a consultative workshop organized by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Centre of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism (KPCVE) in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The workshop aimed to promote effective, integrated, and sustainable policymaking for preventing violent extremism. It brought together policymakers, academics, civil society representatives, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders to assess the issue from multiple perspectives and devise a collective strategy.
In his speech, Barrister Dr. Saif underscored the importance of understanding violent extremism through a sociological and anthropological lens. He explained that extremism does not simply emerge based on ideological beliefs but is rather a product of social complexities, historical contexts, and differing value systems. Providing a historical perspective, he stated that extremism has existed in different forms across various eras and regions, evolving with changing times and circumstances. While religious extremism is currently the most visible form, environmental, linguistic, and political extremism are also rapidly growing in different parts of the world and require equal attention.
Barrister Dr. Saif highlighted the root causes of violent extremism, stating that social injustice, political instability, economic deprivation, and ideological exploitation are key factors contributing to its rise. He pointed out that while religion is often used as a tool to propagate extremism, at its core, extremism is a human behavior that can manifest under any ideological framework.
He identified institutional weaknesses as a major challenge, explaining that weak state and social institutions play a significant role in fostering extremist ideologies. When state institutions fail to deliver their responsibilities effectively, it leads to injustice, instability, and public distrust, providing fertile ground for extremist narratives to thrive. In this context, he stressed that strong institutions are crucial in preventing the spread of such ideologies and steering individuals away from radicalization.
Refuting the notion that extremism is an issue exclusive to the East or the Islamic world, Barrister Dr. Saif pointed out that Western societies also experience extremism in various forms. He noted that historically, Western powers have also resorted to violence based on ideological justifications. Citing examples such as the Crusades, colonialism, and modern military campaigns, he argued that ideological violence has been a global phenomenon. He asserted that if we genuinely wish to eradicate violent extremism, we must approach the issue with an unbiased and objective perspective, free from preconceived notions.
Discussing an effective strategy to counter violent extremism, Barrister Dr. Saif emphasized the need to focus on long-term policies rather than immediate, superficial responses. He suggested integrating critical thinking and tolerance into the education system to safeguard young minds from extremist influences. He further stressed the importance of creating economic opportunities, as financial hardships often push individuals toward extremist groups. Additionally, he advocated for political and social reforms to ensure that people are granted their fundamental rights, reducing feelings of despair and deprivation.
Concluding his address, Barrister Dr. Saif reaffirmed that violent extremism cannot be eradicated through force alone. Instead, a balanced and effective approach is required at ideological, social, economic, and educational levels. He called upon the government, civil society, educational institutions, and the media to work collectively toward building a peaceful, balanced, and progressive society.
The workshop also featured addresses from Secretary Higher Education Kamran Ahmed Afridi, KPCVE Chief Coordination Officer Dr. Ayaz Khan, KPCVE Director General Dr. Muhammad Qasim, UNODC Senior Advisor Syed Hussain Haider, and other distinguished speakers. The speakers emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive and integrated strategy to combat violent extremism and strengthening collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations. They particularly highlighted the role of educational institutions in fostering intellectual development and instilling positive ideologies in young minds as a key approach to counter extremism.
This workshop served not only as a crucial step toward policy alignment but also as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships between the government, civil society, and international organizations. All participants expressed their commitment to continuing collective efforts to combat violent extremism and contribute to the creation of a secure and prosperous society.