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Social media’ implications
Social media has become an important phenomenon that appeals to a wide audience, especially the youth. Many users find it to be a compelling platform because of its capacity to offer rapid access to information, enhance interpersonal interactions and foster relationships and enterprises. However, people with malicious intent, such as terrorists and criminals, might abuse social media’s benefits. These actors exploit this platform to commit several crimes that could endanger national security. During the last few years the activists of PTI propagating fake and malicious news geopardizing national interest.
These activist left no stone upturned to create instability and chaos on the basis of their fake and baseless news being spread on social media. Pakistan has seen an alarming increase in the detrimental effects of social media on its security landscape in recent months. Although social media sites like Facebook and Twitter promote public dialogue, they also act as conduits for propaganda, false information and extremist views that have the potential to destabilise the country. The rapid dissemination of misleading information has the potential to incite violence, create division and erode trust in important institutions. Government should take exemplary action against these misguided and misled elements.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
A decade
of sorrow
The heart-breaking events of December 16, 2014 have been etched into the nation’s collective consciousness, a day no Pakistani who lived through the barbaric terror attack on Peshawar’s Army Public School (APS) and its devastating aftermath will ever forget. For the families of those martyred and the scores who were grievously injured, this day will forever remain a source of immense pain, grief and trauma.
As the nation marks a decade since that fateful day, we find ourselves once again in the grip of a wave of terror that has left thousands of casualties in its wake in the last few years. One would have also thought the APS tragedy would have been a wake-up call to society at large, and the acceptance within our social spaces for extremist ideology would have steadily waned. Despite some gains, we see a disturbing return of extremist violence, the resurgence of the TTP and other militant outfits. The mechanisms developed to counter terrorism have proved ineffectual in the long run due in large part to a lack of political will and seriousness to implement their provisions in true spirit.
Government should acknowledge the failures and shoulder the profound responsibility of formulating a resolute response that addresses the root causes of extremism and combats the terror menace effectively. It is suggested that instead of closing down of educational institutions on December 16,commemorative and thought promoting seminars should be arranged in schools and colleges. This closure is mere wasting of precious study time of the students.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Nuclear proliferation
The proliferation of nuclear weapons remains one of the world’s most pressing threats, with the potential to destabilize international relations, fuel regional conflicts, and increase the risk of catastrophic wars. Despite global efforts to curb nuclear armament, the risk of proliferation continues to grow. This article explores the challenges of nuclear proliferation and offers solutions to mitigate its dangers.
The primary concern with nuclear proliferation is the security threat it poses. In a world of heightened geopolitical tensions, nuclear weapons increase the likelihood of conflict. Countries that feel threatened may pursue nuclear weapons as a deterrent, encouraging neighbouring states to follow suit. This can trigger dangerous arms races, as seen between India and Pakistan, and potentially in regions like the Middle East and East Asia.
Another major issue is the spread of nuclear technology. Advanced technologies for uranium enrichment and missile development, coupled with inadequate oversight, make it easier for states to develop nuclear capabilities.
The dual-use nature of nuclear technology complicates efforts to prevent its misuse. For example, Iran’s nuclear program has raised concerns that peaceful energy efforts may be a cover for nuclear weapons development. Distinguishing between civilian and military nuclear activities further complicates non-proliferation efforts.
To address these challenges, a multifaceted approach is needed, including strengthening international agreements like the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and promoting disarmament. Increased transparency, cooperation and stricter monitoring mechanisms will ensure nuclear technology is used solely for peaceful purposes.
MUNAZZAH ANDALEEB
Via email
