Current Projects
Sabawoon Showcase Jarga Maraka January 1st, 2018
NAP: A Review of 2017 The latest episode of Jarga Marka (Debate and Council) reviewed the National Action Plan (NAP) with Sahibzada Sayed Sajjad, SP Security Peshawar and Dr. Hussain Shaheed Sohrwardi, HOD International Relations Department University of Peshawar. Dr. Sohrwardi was of the opinion that though NAP defined specific tasks for military and political leadership, a weak implementation was observed by the state in comparison to military leadership. He further added that NAP aimed at strict measures against hate speech and literature since strict measures were not implemented until recent past. Sahibzada Sajjad said that 2017 witnessed a reduction of up to 51% in terrorism due to effective security measures. He appreciated the role of the counter terrorism department that it supported the police force in curbing terrorist activities. He emphasized that the society needs to recognize and understand its role and extend support to law enforcement agencies to help create a long-term peaceful solution. A report was aired about the comparison of statistics of the incidents in year 2016 and 2017. Three live calls were received. About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top stories from KP and FATA regions. Jwandai Jazbey airs on Wednesday and deals with issues of relevance to, and significance for, youth, students and women. Socio-cultural affairs...
The Role of Madrasas
The book at hand is the result of a more than two-year-long joint enterprise across borders, regions, and continents, aimed at identifying the development and status of the religious seminaries, also known as madrasas, in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In the West, these madrasas are often perceived as a massive production pipeline for international terrorism. This book attempts to look beyond – or beneath – this perception by examining the role of madrasas through three main research questions, each provided as a main question to each one of the three independent think tanks and research centers. The overall objective of this framework is to take a first step toward creating a correct image of the madrasas and the trajectory their role in society has taken. The three research questions directing the study are: 1) What motivates parents to send their children to madrasas instead of public schools in Pakistan? 2) How are the madrasas in Pakistan funded, and which influence do donors have over them? and 3) Which trends can be identified in different groups’ influences on religious education in Afghanistan? These questions have served as the foundation for the extensive data-collection conducted in the respective countries. The result of the study in terms of this book reflects the collaboration between the Royal Danish Defence College, the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) and the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), both from Pakistan, and the Centre for Conflict and Peace Studies (CAPS) from Afghanistan. In this summary, the findings from the field research provide a brief overview of the analytical results as seen through the editorial lens in Copenhagen. One key discovery was that, besides the anticipated general devotion to religion, households’ economic concerns appeared to be a main motivation for Pakistani parents in sending their children to madrasas instead of public schools. Findings also show an almost remarkable...
Sabawoon Showcase Ranra December 28th, 2017
Dispute Resolution Councils (DRC), an Alternate Source for Conflict Resolution The latest show of Sabawoon Ranra (Light) discussed the theme of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism in Khyber Pakhtunkwa (KP) with the introduction of DRC as an alternate source for conflict resolution. The guest speakers, Sabir Khan, a lawyer and Salim Khan, a member of DRC, were of the opinion that delays in civil and criminal cases, and convoluted procedures in existing judicial system, are against the general public interest. They have become chronic in Pakistan and it not only causes frustration among general public but also hampers socio-economic development. Sabir Khan, while appreciating the initiative of DRCs, added that they are a form ADR mechanism which refers to the resolution of conflicts outside the court room. Currently 41 DRCs are functional in 24 districts of KP, with 14,000 cases resolved since 2015. Salim Khan, added that DRCs are a low cost system of conflict resolution handling petty issues, therefore gradually reducing the burden on courts. However, he suggested that a systematic and rigorous awareness campaign about this system can be beneficial for the general public. A report was also aired to share the point of view of different beneficiaries who really appreciated the initiative and termed it as a successful step for easy access to justice. Two callers expressed their positive views regarding DRCs. AboutSabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues...
BEYOND BOUNDARIES’ CALLS FOR EXTENSION OF AFGHAN REFUGEES STAY IN PAKISTAN
Beyond Boundaries, a Pak-Afghan track 1.5/II initiative, led by Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Islamabad, calls upon the Government of Pakistan to expedite decision on Afghan refugees’ stay in Pakistan. This is in pursuance of Pakistan Government’s policy decision on February 07, 2017, relating to the management of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Additional steps approved by the Cabinet included extension in validity of the Proof of Registration Cards of 1.3 million Afghan refugees, documentation of Afghan nationals without any identification, adoption of a national refugee law, and a visa regime for different categories of Afghan nationals. Beyond Boundaries urges the Government of Pakistan to allow Afghan refugees’ stay in Pakistan up to 31 December, 2018, to end the nebulous nature of their fate. Any delay in extension only exposes the refugees to avoidable excesses and harassment by relevant departments / agencies. CRSS and Beyond Boundaries also appeal to the government for swift implementation of the new visa regime. Together these steps will generate much-needed goodwill, help overcome angst and clear uncertainty regarding the fate of refugees, in addition to improving precarious Pak-Afghan bilateral relations.
Sabawoon Showcase Jwandai Jazbey December 27th, 2017
Challenges and Cultural Barriers Faced by Sportswomen The latest episode of Jwandai Jazbey (Alive Spirit) focused on participation of females in sports and the cultural and religious challenges faced by them. The guest of the show was Shehnaz Kamal, an international female boxing coach from Khyber Pakhtunkwa (KP). Kamal was of the opinion that the major socio-cultural barrier for sportswomen in our society is the idea that sports are meant for men, which is widely promoted through traditions, beliefs and social practices. She said that conservative mindset, prevailing cultural norms and personal insecurities were the major challenges she faced while choosing boxing as a profession. She emphasized that females have to stop underestimating themselves while availing the opportunities and resist gender discrimination. She said that it is time that parents, family and society should redefine trust and stereotypical mindset to ensure maximum participation of females in all types of sports. A report shared the success stories of Maria Torpakai in squash and her contributions in the field of sports. There were eight live calls during the show. AboutSabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top stories from KP and FATA regions. Jwandai Jazbey airs on Wednesday and deals with issues of relevance to, and significance for, youth, students and women....
Sabawoon Showcase Da Semay Jaaj December 26th, 2017
Regional Review of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) The latest episode of the Da Semay Jaaj (Regional Review) discussed multiple irregularities in the health department faced by the people of KP and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). The callers in the show spoke about load shedding, schools for girls, and the long-awaited repair and maintenance of roads. The first report was from Kohat by Tahir Rasheed sharing the data of a World Health Organization (WHO) report on mother and child, mentioning the very high rate of 432,000 deaths annually in Pakistan. The report further stated that more than 20,000 mothers died during child birth annually. While discussing another report in the show, Dr. Muntazir Khan, Deputy Commissioner Charsadda, said that they are struggling hard to overcome the irregularities and corruption issues in the district. He said that they conduct surprise visits to different health and educational institutions to know the problems faced by the public of the area. He further added that last week during his surprise visit, he found some corrupt practices in a basic health unit. The third report from D.I Khan mentioned the sugarcane farmers’ issues with the mill. There were demands from the farmers against the mill owners regarding the price of the sugarcane. They were of the opinion that this is a bad governance issue on part of the KP government. 14 calls were received during the show and mentioned their local problems. Three text messages were also received. AboutSabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communication program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show is aired Monday to Thursday every week under the aforementioned four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM....
CIA Drone Strikes in Pakistan: History, Perception and Future
Author: Farooq Yousaf Editors: Imtiaz Gul and Zeeshan Salahuddin EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report is a part of CRSS’s special publication series that focuses on perception and impact of drone strikes on security and counterterrorism in Pakistan. The report discusses the background of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)-operated US drone strikes in Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), along with how the success of the first strike and the confusion surrounding it gave the US an unmanned option to target alleged terror heads in the region. Since the first strike in 2004 which targeted Taliban leader Nek Muhammad Wazir, the US has conducted over 400 strikes in various areas of FATA. These strikes on the one hand have resulted in the elimination of high profile targets, while on the other, have contributed to civilian casualties. There are conflicting opinions and sentiments on the issue both abroad and in Pakistan, with arguments that such strikes have led to a spike in extremism and terrorism in FATA. The primary survey conducted in this report suggests that drones remain a complex issue with competing narratives. There are also a significant number of respondents from FATA who believe that drones not only eliminate terrorists, but are also the least of three evils: military operations, Taliban and drones. Finally, the report recommends that if the government of Pakistan has a tacit drone deal with the US government and believes drones are effective in FATA, it needs to formulate an effective and clear narrative in order to give clarity. Please see the full PDF here.
CRSS Hosts Dinner for Visiting Afghan Parliamentarians Delegation
Taking advantage of the presence of a few Afghan members of parliament in Islamabad, the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) hosted a dinner in their honor on 25 December, 2017. The Afghan MPs were led by Khalid Pashtoon, a prominent member of the CRSS Pak-Afghan Track 1.5/II dialogue project “Beyond Boundaries.” These MPs were part of a 16 member delegation, led by Speaker Abdul Rauf Ibrahimi, which participated in the six country regional first Speakers’ Conference on 24-25 December held in Islamabad to discuss “the challenges of terrorism and inter-regional connectivity”. Beyond Boundaries’ members included Mr. Khalid Pashtoon, and Mr. Mirwais Yasini; other parliamentarians present were Ms. Nasima (Helmand), Engineer Qarar (Leghman), Mr. Qari Hanifi (Herat) and and Mr.Najrabi, head of the Woolasi Jirga’s committee on internal security. Pakistan Beyond Boundaries members present included Dr. Shoaib Suddle, Mr. Zahid Hussain, and Tahir Khan. Other distinguished guests invited were Mr. Ayaz Wazir, former Ambassador, Mr. Salim Safi, senior journalist, and Mr. asif Bhatti, a correspondent with the daily Jang. Led by Qari Hanifi all guests also offered a collective prayer for peace in both countries and prayed for uninterrupted people to people contacts as well. Ambassador Ayaz Wazir on behalf of CRSS, welcomed, Afghan guests and urged for continued engagement to rub off bilateral acrimony and reduce mistrust. He thanked CRSS for arranging an informal working dinner to discuss with the parliamnetraians the Pak-Afghan bilateral realtions, the issues jointly faced by the two coutries, and a chance to listen to Afghan memebrs who attended the recent Spaekers Conference. He said peace and prosperity and economic connectivity are not only important for Pakistan and Afghanistan, but for the entire region. He hoped that with this high level Speaker’s delegation’s visit, more such multilateral or bilateral contacts should follow. The Afghan...
Sabawoon Showcase Ranra December 21st, 2017
Impact of Co-curricular Activities in Educational Institutions The latest episode of Ranra (Light) discussed the impact of co-curricular activities in educational institutions, with Dr. Sareer Bacha, Chairman Statistics Department Islamia College University Peshawar. The program aimed at discussing the importance of such activities along with academic excellence, particularly among the youth. Dr. Bacha emphasized that in the current scenario of the region, the state must prioritize its target areas. Efforts must be made towards ensuring access to a standardized quality education with equal facilities for all. He was of the opinion that co-curricular and extracurricular activities refine the soft skills of the youth, preparing them for real life practical activities. He said that logical debate and dialogue should be encouraged to enable our students to think critically and find solutions for existing problems faced by their communities. Encouragement of co-curricular activities will guide the youth in a positive direction, drifting them away from negativity and extremism. A report was aired to share the concerns of the masses on quality education and its importance in handling the growing intolerance and extremism. There were six live calls and three SMS messages during the program. AboutSabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communication program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show is aired Monday to Thursday every week under the aforementioned four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 kHz from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top...
Sabawoon Showcase Jwandai Jazbey December 20th, 2017
Importance of Arts and Music in Peace Building The latest episode of Jwandai Jazbey (Alive Spirits) highlighted the importance of arts and music in peace building. The guest for the program was Irfan Kamal, a famous Pashto singer. Ismail, a Pashto artist, was taken live on call during the show as well. Mr. Kamal was of the opinion that quality music can be the best tool to promote social cohesion in society. He added that the revival of folk music and classic poetry needs the supervision of state and institutions. Ismail shared his view that it is the growing extremism and the association of Pakhtoon culture with guns and weapons that motivated him to present the image of Pakhtoons as peaceful people. He said that he also aimed at reviving the classic Pashto poetry, specifically with reference to peace and tolerance so that the image could be redefined. He added that in the past, Hujra used to be the center of all sorts of social activities including music, arts, and craft, and would promote a message of social cohesion. Unfortunately, that culture is diminishing now. With the invasion of different genres of music, the survival of traditional arts is in dire need of a revival. A report was presented about the recent events and musical programs carried out in the province and were seen as a positive sign for a region that has been a victim of conflicts and terrorism. There were two live calls and three SMS received during the show. AboutSabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important...
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I am also a member of National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. Recently, we held a meeting with the Director General of Radio Pakistan and we told them to initiate such local programs (like Constituency Hour) in regional languages to educate and inform people. Even Indian Radio can be heard in FATA which is being used for propaganda purposes and must be closed. Therefore, we should launch some standard and quality programs like CRSS that will change the taste of the listeners.