Effects of International Terrorism on the Security of Pakistan

摘要

The 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States shook the world. Within Pakistan, the consequences were profound. Whereas most Pakistani leadership perceived that support for the US in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) was in their national interests and a continuation of the policies begun under President Pervez Musharraf, others within Pakistan believed that the support signaled a dramatic change in Pakistani policies designed to pander to the US for short term political and economic gains. Some of the Jihadi organizations also labeled it as betrayal by the Pakistan Government. Resultantly, the active role of Pakistan in the US-led GWOT has exposed Pakistan to multifarious external and internal security challenges. This paper examines the Pakistani security posture and internal extremist-related policies before 9/11, particularly during and immediately after Afghan war against the Soviet Union, and focuses on the concept of Jihad, the role of Madaris, and the situation within the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan. It will then analyze the development and maturation of Pakistan's internal policies together with a projection of Pakistan's future security challenges. Finally, the paper examines the prospects for President Musharrafs concept of 'Enlightened Moderation' for the future stability and prosperity of Pakistan.