An Empirical Study to Determine Extremism in Pakistani Society

Abstract

Pakistan has been facing the challenges of extremism and terrorism since 1980s and has been fighting against the anti-state militants. Pakistan has been struggling more than four decades to deal with sectarianism, terrorism, violent threats and acts. Those groups that involved in extremist violence and terrorist attacks in Pakistan are using religion for motivation and legitimacy. From 2001 to 2019 in 940 terrorist attacks, more than 12000 people were killed and 20000 were injured. A survey was conducted to determine extremism in Pakistan and also the mindset of Pakistan society for addressing the drivers of extremism based on a clear understanding of the religious dimension. The questionnaire was designed comprising of fourteen religious based questions to determine the tendencies of radicalization and extremism in Pakistani society. This empirical study examines the mindset of Pakistani society for extremism and trends in Radicalization. This paper further analyzes the Madrassahs reforms initiated by the government how to fail and not implemented in its true spirit.