The 96th radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on November 29, 2019, on the topic of “Democratic Governance in Pakistan”.
The guests on show were of the opinion that despite all the challenges of democracy in the country, it’s the best system of governance and crucial for socio-political and economic progress. At the core of inclusive democracy is public participation in the decision making processes. Rule of law, accountability, transparency and inclusion; all strengthen democracy.
The first guest on show Mr. Sajjad from the Department of Political Science, University of Peshawar noted that the role of citizens is quite significant in democracies where they not only have rights but responsibilities to fulfill too. Its rule of law that ensures equal citizenry in democracies where everyone is accountable before and subject to law. The people – through their knowledge of the system of governance and constitutional rights – can hold their representatives and service delivery institutions accountable, and uphold the accountability mechanism of the government. The outcome will be a responsive governance capable to timely address the issues of public concern. Its only through inclusion that the sustainable peace can be achieved. Good governance is the outcome of inclusive policy making proportionately reflected in the implementation.
The second guest on show Ms. Ayesha Bano, Member of Provincial Assembly, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa noted that the citizens are most powerful in democracies especially through their power to vote and elect their desired representatives. Transparency and accountability are the essential components in democratic governance. The institutions must observe their constitutional limits. One of the prerequisites for democratic governance is equal provision of fundamental human rights to all the citizens indiscriminately. Even if the democracy is not in its perfect form, it is still better than dictatorship. The role of youth is crucial for democratic development, thus they should be provided opportunities to participate and thrive.
Upholding democracy is also important for the country’s goodwill as a responsible country in the global state system which believes in the liberal democratic ideals.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of strengthening social cohesion and promoting peaceful co-existence.