A holistic approach urged to counter radicalization

Laila Bokhari, a PIPS Advisory Board member and a political analyst and researcher with the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI), visited the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), Islamabad, on March 25, 2008. She discussed with the PIPS team the phenomenon of radicalization in Pakistan and prospects of de-radicalization.

She stressed upon the need of evolving a holistic approach to comprehend the current wave of radicalization and extremism in Pakistan and other countries of the world by mapping the entire paradigm of causative determinants and understanding the ideological mindset of those who are behind this menace. “Once we understand the phenomenon with its linked causes, we can step forward for de-radicalization that may include a policy shift and an awareness campaign”, she revealed.

She also decried the political and religious motives which, she said, at times played their role in moulding the public perception in favour of the terrorists and terrorist groups.