Policy Dialogue in Quetta Stresses Long-Term Measures to Counter Extremism
By Sheikh Abdul Razaq
A policy dialogue held in Quetta has highlighted the need for sustained, inclusive and long-term measures to address extremism and terrorism in Balochistan and across Pakistan. Government and opposition lawmakers, senior officials, academics, civil society representatives and journalists stressed that countering violent extremism requires more than short-term responses and must include good governance, quality education, meaningful political participation and constructive engagement of young people.
The dialogue, organised by the Balochistan Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, provided an important platform for discussing the complex factors associated with extremism and exploring approaches that can contribute to a more peaceful and resilient society. Participants emphasised that addressing the underlying causes of violence requires sustained engagement with communities and greater investment in social and human development.
A recurring theme of the discussion was the importance of inclusive dialogue. Participants observed that policy responses become more effective when different segments of society are given opportunities to contribute to discussions on security, social cohesion and peace. They also stressed that educational institutions can play a central role in developing critical thinking, tolerance and respect for diversity among young people.
Provincial Minister for Education Raheela Hameed Durrani described the initiative as significant and stressed the importance of developing a clear understanding of terrorism and extremism. She called for policy dialogues to be expanded so that representatives from different sections of society could participate in shaping effective and sustainable responses.
Member Provincial Assembly Engineer Zamrak Khan Achakzai observed that violence can take different forms and called for greater attention to its underlying causes. MPA Shahida Rauf highlighted the importance of combining security measures with non-kinetic approaches, legislation, governance reforms and sustainable development. Her remarks underscored the need for a comprehensive framework in which security and development reinforce each other.
Speakers also focused on the role of women and young people in building social resilience. Secretary Women Development Sher Shah Ghilzai and other officials highlighted initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for women and youth. Platforms such as the Women Endowment Fund and Youth Resource Centres can provide avenues for economic empowerment, skills development and constructive participation in society.
The role of education was also discussed extensively. Colleges, schools and other educational institutions are not simply places of learning; they can become important spaces for promoting dialogue, civic responsibility and peaceful coexistence. Providing young people with opportunities in education, sports, skills development and community activities can help channel their energy towards productive pursuits.
Chief Coordination Officer of the Centre of Excellence Dr Dost Muhammad Bareech, Special Secretary Home Abdul Salam Achakzai and officials from the education, social welfare and sports sectors contributed to the discussion, reinforcing the importance of institutional coordination.
The media emerged as another important component of the broader response. President of the Balochistan Union of Journalists Manzoor Ahmed Baloch highlighted the expanding influence of traditional and social media. The discussion reflected the need for responsible communication, media literacy and greater public awareness, particularly among young audiences navigating an increasingly digital environment.
Ultimately, countering extremism is a long-term societal challenge that cannot be addressed by any single institution. Government departments, political leadership, educational institutions, media organisations, civil society, families and young people all have distinct but interconnected roles to play.
A sustained policy framework built around good governance, education, economic opportunity, social inclusion and responsible public communication can help strengthen resilience against violent extremism. The Quetta dialogue therefore represents an important contribution to a broader conversation about developing practical, inclusive and sustainable approaches to peace and stability in Balochistan and Pakistan.