Dynamics of Religious Extremism in Pakistan: Analyzing role of government, media and Seminaries

Abstract

Although extremism and terrorism has long been a global threat, many countries have only just started developing systemic policies to tackle the root causes of religious extremism. Studying front-line countries like Pakistan is critical to understanding how to tackle the challenge effectively. Despite Pakistan's war with anti-government rebels like the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), Pakistan has been struggling for more than a decade to resolve the theoretical aspects of those problems. This study focused on understanding the role of government, media and religious seminaries (Madrasa System) in increasing or decreasing the religious extremism in Pakistan. The study adopted qualitative research method and analyzed the findings of previous research studies on the topic. The study revealed that though successive governments in Pakistan tried to overcome the menace of extremism, but due to certain policies of state, its lethargic approach and mistrust between government and madrasa leaders regarding reforms are major contributors of extremism in the country, while effective monitoring of media for extremist content and strict action can reduce religious extremism in the country.