Mohammad Umar Shabbir
National cohesion, which transcends regional, ethnic, religious, and linguistic divisions, is the social and cultural coherence among a people living together as a nation.
It promotes a sense of belonging, shared values, and a common identity among who wish to pursue common national goals.
In our beloved country today, national cohesion is crucial for preserving social harmony, fostering economic growth, and bolstering the country’s democratic credentials.
National cohesions of course draws its strength from great cultural diversity that Pakistan is identified with.
Pakistan is a blend of various ethnicities, languages, and religions. Though struggle for Pakistan was characterized by struggle for a separate homeland for Muslims of sub-continent, but people hailing from diverse religions happened to live in Pakistan. That made Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of this beloved announce in no uncertain terms that all the minorities living in Pakistan enjoy equal rights as the Muslims. Given the interfaith disharmony among Hindus and Muslims erupting into partition carnage, Quaid-e-Azampushed for tolerance, equalityand unity of people at large because he precisely could discern the significance of a cohesive nation for development and prosperity.
Pakistan is a melting pot of different ethnic groups, including Pashtuns, Balochis, Sindhis, Punjabis, and Muhajirs, each with their own cultural history and identity. If this diversity is considered a strength, all people from all ethnicities or religious identities would feel inclusive and will have a sense of belonging and bondage. The diversity in all forms will be driven by national cohesiveness, which would in turn promoterespect and admiration for all the diverse cultures. Besides, it allows the country to capitalise on the advantages of its diverse culture and act as a potent instrument to combat prejudice, discrimination, and marginalisation.
National coherence ignites social harmony and enables the peaceful coexistence of various communities. When people feel like they are a part of a shared national identity, they are more inclined to resolve conflicts amicably, respect one another’s rights, and cooperate towards the common good. In a cohesive community, sectarianism, religious extremism, and other divisive beliefs areproscribed as they have potential to endanger peace and harmony. People are more likely to participate in national life, uphold the law, and work towards the creation of a just and equitable society if they feel a sense of national identity and belonging.
For a country to advance economically, national cohesion is crucial. Social cohesiveness, fostered through national cohesion, boosts output, creativity, and the spirit of accomplishment. A cohesive community encourages cooperation and builds trust among its members, both of which are essential for sustainable development, economic growth, and the reduction of poverty.
The combined efforts and solidarity of a nation’s population play a crucial role in maintaining its security and defence. National cohesion is essential for bringing the public together to face dangers and difficulties from without. People are more willing to support and defend their country when they have a sense of connection and identity with it. National cohesion, which also boosts the morale of the military forces, increases the country’s resilience against internal and external forces that try to undermine its stability.
Government, civic society, educational institutions, and people as a whole all share in the joint responsibility of fostering national cohesion. Encouraging the adoption of a diverse and well-rounded curriculum that emphasises the history and diversity of all Pakistani communities while encouraging individuals to show respect for one another.
The integration of historical narratives, tolerance and acceptance principles, and cultural education into the educational system is crucial. Equality and social justice: ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, religion, or ethnicity, have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources. To achieve this, discrimination must be eliminated, and policies supporting inclusivity, justice, and equality must be promoted.
Supporting responsible journalism that fosters unity and prevents the spread of incorrect information, sensationalism, and hate speech.
In order to promote empathy and understanding amongst various communities, media outlets should place a priority on truthful reporting, highlight shared ideals, and give a platform to varied views.Creating venues for communication, comprehension, and collaboration amongst various religious and ethnic groups in order to promote mutual respect and trust, programmes for interfaith conversation and cross-cultural interaction can help to sever barriers, dispel myths, and foster a feeling of humanity.
Promoting national cohesiveness requires ensuring that institutions function in a transparent, effective, and unbiased manner.
A strong and accountable judiciary, an unbiased media, and effective governing structures all contribute to national unity by fostering faith in the system. Involving and empowering youth is essential for fostering a sense of unity throughout the country.
By offering educational and employment opportunities, fostering cultural exchange programmes, and supporting youth-led projects, we can help young people come into the fold of the national mainstream of unity and cohesion.
The writer is a young
entrepreneur who works for Karobar TV.
