THE merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) into Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in 2018 marked a significant shift in the governance and security dynamics of the region. This amalgamation aimed to integrate the tribal areas into mainstream Pakistani governance structures, striving for development, stability, and peace in the region. However, the transition has been marred by persistent challenges, particularly concerning terrorism and extremism in the Newly Merged Districts (NMDs). The analysis identifies historical neglect and marginalization, socioeconomic deprivation, and rugged terrain as key drivers of terrorism in the NMDs. These factors have contributed to the emergence and proliferation of extremist ideologies and militant groups, posing significant challenges to governance and security. Understanding the drivers behind terrorism in these regions, identifying the associated challenges, and exploring viable options for addressing these issues are critical endeavours for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders alike.
However, the 1980s heralded a decade of transformation for FATA. The increasing Soviet influence in Afghanistan thrust the adjoining FATA region into the international spotlight. The United States, amidst the Cold War with the Soviet Union, developed a renewed interest in the tribal belt. Its Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) collaborated with Pakistan’s premier intelligence agency to finance, train and arm mujahedeen, who were operating from (former) FATA. Indeed, as extensively documented, FATA’s “Islamic soldiers,” or Mujahideen, were deliberately and consistently imbued with a specific brand of violent jihadist fervour to instigate a holy war against the expansion of Soviet communism in neighbouring Afghanistan. Pakistani scholar Tariq Amin Khan has observed that this external funding and interest in Islamizing Pakistan’s largely secular public sphere were unprecedented.
The drivers of terrorism in the NMDs are varied and complex, stemming from socio-economic, political, security and ideological factors. Socio-economic disparities, including marginalization, poverty, and limited access to education and employment opportunities, create fertile ground for radicalization and recruitment by terrorist groups. Weak governance structures, corruption, and ethnic and tribal tensions exacerbate security challenges, allowing terrorist organizations to exploit governance deficits and inter-communal conflicts for their agendas.
Geographical proximity to conflict zones, such as the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, exposes the NMDs to spillover effects of violence, while inadequate border management facilitates the movement of militants and illicit goods. Pervasive radical ideologies, sectarian tensions, and the propagation of extremist narratives further contribute to the perpetuation of terrorist activities in the region. Persistent socio-economic deprivation and marginalization contribute to feelings of alienation and disenfranchisement among the local population, making them vulnerable to radicalization and recruitment by terrorist groups.
Following the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan, Pakistan witnessed a staggering 73% surge in terrorist attacks during the initial 21 months. This increase is markedly higher compared to the corresponding period before the Taliban’s takeover. Since the Taliban assumed control of Kabul in August 2021, Pakistan has experienced a notable uptick in incidents of terrorist violence. Over the span of 21 months, from August 2021 to April 2023, there has been a concerning 138% rise in the number of fatalities resulting from these attacks. The report underscores that the escalating patterns of terrorism will exacerbate Pakistan’s enduring security challenges. These include the ongoing Taliban militancy in the KP and the former tribal areas, the Baloch nationalist insurgency in Balochistan, ethno-nationalist violence in Sindh, along with escalating religious extremism and radicalism.
Addressing effective measures to combat terrorism and extremism and preventing the wave of terrorism in Newly Merged Districts, involves several approaches. Firstly, promoting infrastructure and functional mechanisms, as well as organic structures of institutions, can help protect the fundamental rights of the people, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, thereby addressing the issue of terrorism to some extent. Secondly, applying Lederach’s pyramid as a problem-solving framework emphasizes engaging with communities and individuals to foster long-term, sustainable conflict transformation, rather than simply managing or containing conflict through political settlements. Thirdly, desensitizing and demilitarizing the environment of Newly Merged Districts can promote a culture of education, dialogue and academic and physical activities. Implementing sophisticated reforms in the National Action Plan (NAP) to counter terrorism and extremism in the regions, and apprehending outlawed militant groups, is crucial. Most importantly, fostering harmony among civil-military relations is essential to build confidence and ensure state security. Last but not the least, Pakistan should establish and improve its relationship with Afghanistan, while also taking the initiative of non-involvement and fostering relations with global powers. This will pave the way to tackle terrorism and strengthen internal dynamics, enhancing the social contract between the people and the state.
—The writer is a researcher and columnist based in Mardan.
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