Emerging Militancy in Pakistan

(By JJ Baloch)

The resurgence of militancy in Pakistan, particularly the re-emergence of groups like the Pakistani Taliban, poses a complex challenge rooted in historical, economic, and geopolitical factors. These elements intertwine, fostering an environment conducive to violence. To develop effective strategies against this militancy, it is crucial to understand its deep-rooted causes. Addressing these underlying issues is also vital for restoring regional peace and stability. Without a comprehensive understanding of the historical context and socio-economic conditions fueling this unrest, efforts to mitigate the situation may be ineffective. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly engage with these roots to create informed and impactful responses to the challenges of militant resurgence.

1. Re-emergence of Militants

The re-emergence of militant groups in Pakistan can be attributed to several organic factors that allow them to gain traction within local communities.

A. Economic Entanglements

Militant groups have entrenched themselves in local economies, often capitalizing on illegal smuggling and extortion. For instance, the Pakistani Taliban and other militant groups have become significant players in the contraband trade along the porous borders with Afghanistan and Iran. Their involvement in smuggling operations provides them with financial resources and increases their influence over local populations who rely on these economic activities for their livelihoods. In regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, militants often extort money from transporters and shopkeepers, establishing a form of economic control that discourages local opposition. This economic entanglement creates a cycle of dependency, where local communities may see militants as protectors rather than perpetrators of violence.

B. Manipulation of Local Conflicts

Militants often exploit local property disputes, especially regarding agricultural land, to incite conflict and enhance their regional power. By aligning with one party in these disputes, they manipulate existing tensions to benefit their interests, thereby solidifying their influence within the community. This manipulation highlights the urgent need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms that address underlying issues before militants can exploit them. Implementing systems prioritising open communication and understanding is essential to prevent disputes from escalating. Community-led initiatives that encourage dialogue and mediation among conflicting parties are crucial for reducing tensions and diminishing the appeal of militancy. These grassroots efforts foster harmony and empower communities to manage their own issues, decreasing the likelihood of outside influences. By investing in local conflict resolution strategies, communities can safeguard against manipulating their grievances and promote an environment where peace prevails over violence.

2. Geopolitical Influences

The geopolitical landscape of Pakistan is riddled with complexities that significantly contribute to the emergence of militancy.

A. Historical Backing of Militants

State support for militant groups, especially during the conflicts in Afghanistan, has created a legacy of violence that still affects the region today. This ongoing issue presents complex challenges that political leaders often avoid addressing directly. Rather than tackling the underlying causes, they typically issue broad condemnations of terrorism, neglecting a critical examination of what fuels the persistence of militant movements. The Afghan jihad of the 1980s, heavily supported by the United States and Pakistan, was a pivotal moment that led to the rise of various factions, including the Taliban. Understanding this historical context is crucial for grasping current dynamics, particularly the factors that allow groups like the Pakistani Taliban to maintain support among certain populations. The interplay of past events and current political developments demands thorough analysis, revealing the complexities of loyalty to these groups today. Acknowledging this intricate history is essential for meaningful dialogue and addressing regional militancy challenges.

B. External Influences

Pakistan’s relationships with external powers, particularly the United States, Gulf states, and China, complicate its internal security dynamics. The conflicting interests of these powers often lead to policies favour short-term stability over long-term peace. This approach inadvertently fosters conditions that enable militant groups to thrive amid chaos. To disrupt this cycle and enhance stability, Pakistan should adopt a non-aligned foreign policy prioritising cooperation and robust economic development with its neighbours. Such a strategy could diminish the influence of external powers seeking to manipulate Pakistan’s geopolitical landscape for their own benefits. By emphasizing regional collaboration and joint economic initiatives, Pakistan can fortify its position and present a united front against external interference, ultimately enhancing its internal security and promoting a more stable regional environment.

3. Economic Dynamics and Smuggling

The economic realities of Pakistan, particularly the extensive smuggling networks operating across its borders, create an environment where violence is both a symptom and a cause of broader economic competition.

A. The Economy of Violence

The contraband trade is not merely a byproduct of economic distress; it is a well-organized enterprise involving a range of participants, from state officials to local militant groups. This intricate network thrives amid conflict and instability, hindering legitimate economic activities. In the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), smuggling goods like fuel and textiles has become a lucrative business for militant factions and local merchants. The lack of strong state control significantly fuels the black market, often protected by militant groups that exploit the chaos. These groups gain financially from the trade while using it to enhance their influence in the communities they inhabit. Consequently, the connection between conflict and illicit trade perpetuates instability, making it difficult for formal economic activities to establish themselves in such a volatile environment.

B. Oversimplification of National Security

The Pakistani government’s focus on national security often simplifies complex socio-economic issues into mere security threats. This approach neglects the root causes of violence and instability, which militant groups exploit by capitalizing on social and economic disenfranchisement. A comprehensive strategy that combines economic development with security measures is essential to tackle these challenges. This strategy should prioritise creating legitimate economic opportunities to combat the illicit economy in marginalized areas. By investing in legal trade routes and supporting local businesses, the government can weaken the financial foundations of militant activities, fostering stability and empowering the population. This, in turn, will create a healthier economic environment and reduce the appeal of illegal activities.

Conclusion

The roots of militancy in Pakistan are closely linked to historical, economic, and geopolitical factors. To address these issues, a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond security measures is essential. Pakistan can dismantle the conditions that enable militancy by emphasising conflict resolution, promoting economic development, and adopting a non-aligned foreign policy. A multifaceted approach to prioritising local community needs is crucial for breaking the cycle of violence and achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.

The writer is a scholar, author, novelist, humanist poet, blogger, educator, and DIG at the Police Service of Pakistan.

References

• Rashid, A. (2010). Descent into Chaos: The U.S. and the Disaster in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. Penguin Books.
• Fair, C. C. (2014). Fighting to the End: The Pakistan Army’s Way of War. Oxford University Press.
• International Crisis Group. (2017). Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Challenge. Retrieved from International Crisis Group.
• Siddiqa, A. (2019). Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan’s Military Economy. Pluto Press.