Current Projects
Q3 Security Report – 2017
Executive Summary: Despite a visible decline in acts of terrorism, shifting loyalties within their cadres, and slowing military operations, militant groups adopted new tactics to sustain their presence and attempt spatial legitimacy. Infighting among terrorist outfits, emergence of new splinter groups and the drive for recruitment and retention seemed to drive the bulk of the militant agenda. They appear to have reverted to primarily targeting security personnel. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) launched a female-centric publication, “Sunnat-i-Khaula”, following Daish’s (Islamic State – IS) footsteps in attempting to recruit educated females. The significant decline in the number of fatalities from violence in KP and FATA during Q3 shows overall progress. The transportation of explosives and confiscation of armaments from FATA and other parts of the country show continued militant tenacity. After a string of successful military operations in the FATA regions, the provinces of Balochistan and Sindh appear to have become the main hubs for militant activity, with a pronounced focus on security forces. Casualties from Violence in Pakistan: During the third quarter of this year, 499 persons lost their lives and 388 were wounded in violence and counter-violence incidents in the country. Balochistan, Punjab, and Sindh, suffered the majority of fatalities while the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Khyber Pukhtunkhwa (KP) were the least affected by violence (table 01). A comparative data of fatalities from violence in Q2 vs. Q3 shows that Punjab and Sindh have had a significant rise in fatalities, while FATA witnessed a sharp drop from 171 in Q2, to 48 in Q3. KP had a marginal drop in the number of fatalities. Overall, the increase in violence-related fatalities is negligible and does not signify any noticeable increase in overall violence across the country. The fatalities from counter-violence operations by security agencies increased two-fold in Q3...
Sabawoon Showcase Jarga Maraka November 13th, 2017
Industrial Policy for Employment to Counter Extremism The latest episode of program Jarga Maraka (Debate and Council) primarily focused on the industrial policy of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Government to produce employment and tackle extremism in the region. President of Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Zahid Ullah Khan Shinwary was the guest of the show. Mr. Shinwary expressed his views openly and complained against the provincial and federal governments for their lack of interest in this regard. He said that there are a lot of policies for industrial development on federal and provincial level but no implementation and follow up of these policies. He further stated that they were satisfied with the actions of the new Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf PTI led KP government in 2013 for taking solid steps for industrial development, creating employment opportunities, changing the harsh behaviors and countering extremism but unfortunately, even they have their own political preferences. Mr. Shinwary expressed hope for the future because of China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is a three phased, 15 year long project. There are a lot of employment opportunities in the second and third phase of the project. He added that the agriculture sector also has an opportunity for speedy growth with CPEC activities. As many as six listeners took part in the program, expressing their views regarding the topic. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
Sabawoon Showcase Ranra November 9th, 2017
Climate Change and Government Responsibilities The latest episode of Ranra (Light) focused on climate change, effects of smog on local population, government responsibilities and policies. Mr. Asim Muhammad, Principle Investigator Climate Change, Agriculture University, was the studio guest in the show. He stated, “I believe growing population and deforestation are the reasons for many of our problems. Unfortunately no concrete steps were taken by the government for prevention of deforestation, and neither was any plan formulated to deal with the disasters caused by climate change.” He added that government’s drive of Billion Tsunami tree drive is terrific, but this needs to a consistent endeavor. He further added that Khyber Pukhtunkhwa government introduced Environmental Protection Policy 2014 to stop deforestation, control emissions and increase the number of water reservoirs and dams but there is no implementation on ground. A CRSS correspondent report was also played during the show about the adverse effects of smog on health. Four listeners took part in the program. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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 are discussed in Ranra on Thursday. The primary...
Sabawoon Showcase Jwandai Jazbey November 8th, 2017
Good Governance and Public Access to Elected Officials The latest episode of Jwandai Jazbey (Alive Spirit) focused on the level of public access to elected representatives and their demeanor towards the public. The episode highlighted that good governance requires public officials to prioritize public needs. This is counterbalanced by an informed electorate that demands accountability, and knows who to approach. Mohammad Saleem Khan, Deputy Mayor Union Council-78, Peshawar, was a studio guest in the show. He stated that it is the core responsibility of elected members to address public issues. Since members of provincial and national assemblies legislate at the higher level, local government members are entrusted with every day public issues and welfare. He added that the public may not be clear on who to approach for which problems. He further stated that a lack of funding is the biggest bottleneck in allowing them to serve the public. He said that approaching female members may be ineffective as they don’t get as much exposure as male members. Further, he added, they have not been given any funds thus far. A CRSS correspondent report was played during the show. It highlighted the the role of elected female local government members, and how they are solving female issues. Two listeners took part in the program through live calls. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
Sabawoon Showcase Da Semay Jaaj November 7th, 2017
Regional Review of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) The latest episode of Da Semay Jaaj (Regional Review) focused on the issues faced by the people of KP and FATA with special emphasis on rule of law and good governance in the region. A report in the show showcased the unchecked encroachment of District Charsadda’s historical graveyard. Assistant Commissioner Charsadda, Mr. Inayatullah joined as a telephonic guest in the show, and shared that the Deputy Commissioner Charsadda issued orders to control the situation and maintain the rule of law in the district. In another report from Mohmand Agency FATA, the show discussed the open court event by the Political Agent Mohmand at Ghallani, aimed at improving governance in the region. An initiative of the Chief Secretary KP, this intervention is designed to help district administrations to remain abreast of public concerns. Hundreds of locals attended the event and complaints against different departments in the agency were raised and registered. The Political Agent Inayatullah assured the public of a quick turnaround after hearing their woes. As many as 11 listeners took part in the program and shared the issues of their areas. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
Sabawoon Showcase Jarga Maraka November 6th, 2017
Freedom of Expression as a Fundamental Human Right The latest episode Jarga Maraka (Debate and Council) was focused on the importance of the basic human rights, specifically the freedom of expression. Mehmood Jan Babar, a senior journalist and analyst was the studio guest in the show. He said that our society is passing through a transition period due to the ubiquity of social and electronic media. He said that this freedom is necessary as every individual becomes a powerful counterbalance, corruption is exposed, and the culpable feel the noose tighten in the court of public opinion. He added that although Article 19 of our constitution affords freedom of expression, many institutions and individuals use a range of pressure tactics to keep the media from openly commenting on certain taboo subjects. Mr. Babar further criticized the faltering state of media ethics, shunning of the responsibility of public good, and the unwillingness to follow PEMRA (Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority) rules. He added that PEMRA must implement all rules and regulations across the board, unequivocally and without prejudice. This, he added, can be a crucial step in countering radicalization on the airwaves. Mr. Babar said that there is a dire need of awareness for using social media. The majority of social media users are illiterate, or do not understand their rights, responsibilities and limits when using these platforms. As many as four listeners took part in the program expressing their views regarding the topic. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
NOC for (I)NGOs or Tool for Corruption?
One of the reasons for Pakistan’s current tardy and obstructive governance stems from a reckless propensity to deny, suspend, or shut-down things that are viewed as detrimental to the so-called ‘national interests.’ Shutting down YouTube for years, for instance, was just one of the many symptoms of this malaise that often ends up tainting Pakistan’s image as a reactionary, retrogressive country that is still governed by an obscurantist bureaucracy. The management regime generally revolves around shut-down, clamp-down, suspension or closure altogether. Such administrative measures totally disregard implications at the grassroots level. Three recent issues illustrate this obstructive mindsets major issues. Back in 2016, the civil-military security establishment all of a sudden decided to block “unverified, suspect” national ID cards and the bank accounts associated with them as part of its counter-terrorism strategy. The decision turned out to be devastating for tens of thousands of Pakistani citizens, many of whom found themselves without identity and with no access to their bank accounts. It threw all the “suspects” at the mercy of various arms of the security apparatus. This happened only because little thought went into this decision. Secondly, all the international (INGOs) and national non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have been subject to a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for their operations. Sadly, this requirement has armed the lower strata of the security establishment with a carte blanche for wilful corruption. Several officials in Islamabad and provincial capitals such as Lahore and Peshawar have been dragging their feet in allowing NGOs, even those that are running skills and development training programs for girls. Low-ranking officials have often blackmailed INGOs and national NGOs into greasing their palms. In fact the NOC requirement has become a lethal tool of extortion. Those who did offer gratification got at least provisional NOCs, others...
Sabawoon Showcase Ranra November 2nd, 2017
Lack of Employment Opportunities Lead to Extremism The latest episode of Ranra (Light) focused on the impact of unemployment on the youth bulge in Pakistan. Dr. Sareer Bacha, Chairman Statistics Department, Islamia College, University of Peshawar, took part as the studio guest in the show. He stated that the main reasons behind this problem are the explosive growth rate, nepotism, substandard education, and violation of merit. The government and policy makers need to take proper measures to reduce unemployment and poverty. He further added that unemployment leads to frustration which results in gravitation towards crime and drug abuse. He said that the government should take appropriate measures to enhance employment opportunities. Two solutions presented by the statistician were reviving the industrial sector and promoting entrepreneurship in the country. A CRSS correspondent report was played during the show sharing the views of youngsters regarding unemployment. As many as three listeners took part in the program urging the authorities to create additional working opportunities for the people as that would reduce youth angst, provide a healthy avenue to direct their energies, and steer them away from the path of radicalization. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
Sabawoon Showcase Jwandai Jazbey November 1st, 2017
Encouraging Women to Join Police for Empowerment The latest episode of Jwandai Jazbey (Alive Spirit) focused on the incorporation of females in the police force to aid counter-radicalization efforts and challenge established norms. Rizwana Tufail, Station House Officer (SHO) for the Women Police Station in Peshawar, was the studio guest. She stated that her police station and the inclusion of women facilitation desks has been one of the most effective police reforms. Social norms and cultural taboos prevented many women from approaching male police officers. This police station is able to facilitate a large volume of women that now feel comfortable approaching another female with their problems. She encouraged women to join law enforcement in order to strengthen the force. She said this will also challenge established cultural notions and allow for deeper inclusion of women in the workforce. A CRSS correspondent report was played during the show. The report talked about Pakistani police officer Raffia Qaseem Baig, the first ever Asian female who joined the Bomb Disposal Unit. As many as three listeners took part in the program. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
Sabawoon Showcase: October 31, 2017
Regional Review on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) The latest episode of Da Simay Jaaj (regional review) focused on the issues faced by the people of KP and FATA with special emphasis on counter radicalization strategy in the society. A seminar on this topic was held in the Institute of Management Sciences (IMS) department in Bannu University in collaboration with CRSS. Speakers said that the public must identify the reasons of radicalization and extremism in society. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Bannu Dar Ali Khattak told the students that the pursuit of knowledge is the antithesis to extremism. He pressed upon the teachers to promote tolerance among the students, as teachers are the guardians of our youth. Speaking as telephonic guest in the show, Professor Dr. Shahid Jan said injustice, intolerance, unemployment, lack of education and social-economic inequality contributed to extremism in society. He said steps need to be taken to eliminate these foundational issues. Finally, a report aired in the program focused on the KP Government’s evening class initiative. Thirty schools of District Kohat and District Swabi have introduced a second evening shift, admitting 1,000 students, including 400 girls. As many as six listeners took part in the program and shared the various issues pertaining to their locale. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications programme, 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...
TOP STORIES
TESTIMONIALS
“
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.