A single factor cannot explain the rise of extremism in Pakistan. It is the result of overlapping historical, political, and socio-economic failures. The Afghan-Soviet war of the 1980s, heavily funded by foreign powers, created a militant culture that spilt over into Pakistan. This was compounded by state policies that supported jihadist networks for strategic purposes. The curriculum in many madrassas, especially unregulated ones, continued to promote sectarian narratives without critical Islamic scholarship. Moreover, prolonged political instability, lack of access to justice, and the widening gap between rich and poor have created a sense of alienation and resentment, particularly among the youth. These conditions become fertile ground for extremist ideologies to take root.
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Misinterpretation of Religious Texts and Sectarianism
A major contributor to extremism in Pakistan is the misuse of religious texts. Without proper knowledge of Qur’anic context and Prophetic traditions, verses related to Jihad or punishment are quoted out of context to justify violence. Many extremist groups exploit this ignorance to radicalize vulnerable youth. Additionally, sectarianism has been weaponized by religious and political actors to promote hatred, causing frequent clashes between Sunni, Shia, and other minority sects. This deviates completely from the Islamic principle of unity and tolerance, as commanded in Surah Al-Hujurat: “Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers” (49:10). Islam never permits violence based on doctrinal differences.
Lack of Quality Education and Youth Vulnerability
The education system in Pakistan is deeply polarized and uneven. While elite institutions promote liberal worldviews, the majority of children are left to either low-quality public schools or unregulated religious seminaries. These students, lacking exposure to diverse knowledge and critical thinking, often become susceptible to narrow and literalist interpretations of religion. Furthermore, unemployment, lack of career opportunities, and disillusionment with the state create psychological conditions that extremists exploit. They offer a false sense of purpose, identity, and martyrdom to vulnerable minds. Islam, however, encourages the pursuit of knowledge, reflection, and constructive service to humanity, not destruction.
Failure of Justice and Rule of Law
Injustice breeds rebellion. Many regions of Pakistan, especially marginalized areas, have suffered from decades of lawlessness, extra-judicial killings, and state negligence. When people are denied justice, they lose faith in peaceful processes. Extremist groups fill this vacuum by claiming to provide swift justice, though through unlawful means. The Qur’an emphasizes justice as a pillar of Islamic governance: “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people, to judge with justice…” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:58). A society that neglects justice risks plunging into chaos and violence.
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Political Polarization and Use of Religion in Power Struggles
Political factions in Pakistan have frequently manipulated religion for short-term gains, invoking Islamic slogans and fatwas to discredit opponents. This practice has desensitized the public and diminished the sanctity of religious discourse. Instead of promoting unity and development, religion is often used to provoke outrage and division. The Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), on the contrary, is filled with examples of how he promoted forgiveness, mutual consultation, and consensus, even during political and tribal rivalries. Politics in Pakistan requires moral reform grounded in prophetic ethics rather than populist religiosity.
Islamic Teachings as a Cure for Extremism
Islam provides a comprehensive solution to extremism by emphasizing balance, compassion, and justice. The Qur’an describes the Muslim community as “a justly balanced nation” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:143). This balance extends to belief, behavior, and relations with others. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) consistently condemned fanaticism and excess in religion. He warned: “Beware of exaggeration in religion, for those before you were destroyed by exaggeration” (Sunan An-Nasa’i). The path to eradicating extremism lies in reviving these core teachings of moderation, knowledge, and mercy.
Educational and Ideological Reforms
The first step toward deradicalization is reforming the education system. Curricula must promote analytical thinking, interfaith tolerance, and accurate knowledge of Islamic history and jurisprudence. Religious seminaries should be brought under a unified regulatory framework and encouraged to teach comparative fiqh, ethics, and civic duties alongside traditional texts. Islamic scholars and teachers must reclaim their role as spiritual guides rather than political instruments. The Prophet’s method of educating his companions was rooted in love, wisdom, and inclusivity, which must be emulated in our modern institutions.
Promotion of Inter-Sect Harmony and Media Responsibility
State institutions, religious boards, and civil society must launch inter-sector dialogue initiatives across the country. Friday sermons (khutbahs) should focus on common values rather than sectarian differences. Electronic and social media platforms must be held accountable for promoting hate speech and misinformation. Instead, these platforms can be used to highlight Islamic values of peace, historical examples of coexistence, and voices of respected scholars who denounce violence. The Prophet’s interactions with Jews, Christians, and pagans were characterized by mutual respect, legal agreements, and non-coercion, principles sorely needed today.
Just Governance and Economic Inclusion
Addressing extremism also requires restructuring governance to be more inclusive, transparent, and service-oriented. State injustice and negligence allow violent ideologies to thrive. By ensuring access to education, healthcare, justice, and employment across all provinces and ethnicities, the state can restore public trust. Zakat and waqf systems must be institutionalised to serve deprived communities. Islam mandates that rulers are accountable to the people and must protect life, honour, and property regardless of religious affiliation. The Caliphate of Umar (RA) set this precedent through justice, poverty eradication, and merit-based leadership.
Extremism in Pakistan is not merely a security issue; it is a moral and intellectual crisis that requires a holistic response. While military operations may eliminate terrorists, they cannot remove the ideology that breeds them. Only the light of authentic Islamic teachings, centered on peace, justice, and mercy, can neutralize the darkness of extremism. By reforming education, restoring justice, promoting unity, and empowering youth, Pakistan can emerge as a beacon of moderation and dignity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) transformed a violent tribal society into a unified moral civilization through character, compassion, and conviction. His model remains the guiding light for Pakistan to defeat extremism and build a peaceful future.
