The 101st radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on January 03, 2020, on the topic of “Good Governance and Social Cohesion”.
“In the contemporary world, democracy is the most viable, inclusive, desirable and sustainable form of government as it is of the people, by the people, for the people”, resonated with all the guest speakers.
The first guest on show, Mr. Ajmal Khan, a lecturer of political science from Edwards College, Peshawar, opined that the human rights, cultural diversity and social cohesion are among the core principles of democratic governance where every citizen has equal opportunities for social mobility, quality education and participation in the decision making processes, just to name a few. Therefore, this form of governance is not only conducive for the provision of fundamental human rights to all the citizens, but also to uphold rule of law and bolster across the board accountability. For democracy to flourish, not only the citizenry should be responsible but also the political leadership where they should adopt the democratic values before propagation. Institutional transparency and separation of powers where they observe their respective constitutional limits is crucial for socio-political and economic progress, as well as democratic development.
The second guest on show, Mr. Imad Khalil, an advocate by profession, said that democratic governance is all about citizens empowerment and equality, accountability and rule of law. Its overarching focus in public empowerment and prosperity is manifested in its fundamental principles.
Youth is backbone of the society and need opportunities and capacity for participation in the political and decision making processes as well as national development. State must not miss this opportunity to strengthen democracy by allocating resources for youth leadership development; equipping them with the critical thinking and peacebuilding skills. Reforms within the political parties are the need of the hour, he concluded.
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.