Dr Saqib Khan Warraich

Pakistan is facing a serious and growing problem: the radicalisation of parts of its population. The vast and unfiltered nature of the internet essentially drives this trend. The digital revolution brings great opportunities for learning, connection, and economic progress. However, it also spreads extremist ideas and causes social divisions. The internet allows extremist propaganda to compete with mainstream values and traditions. Jihadi groups and radical clerics use social media, encrypted apps, and websites to spread hate. They glorify violence and share twisted versions of religion. Their methods are highly sophisticated and far-reaching. They often target young people who feel isolated, frustrated, or deeply religious. These youth are drawn in with straightforward answers and promises of belonging. In reality, they are pulled into a dangerous and distorted cause.

The internet doesn't just spread violent extremism. It also enables a more subtle and dangerous form of radicalisation. People are exposed to a flood of conflicting views on religion and morality. Without media literacy, many struggle to tell credible sources from misleading ones. As a result, they may absorb intolerant, sectarian, or ultra-conservative beliefs. These views often demonise other Muslim sects, minorities, or secular individuals. They also promote strict and oppressive social rules. At the same time, young people are exposed to secular and liberal global content. This content often clashes with local cultural and religious values. Conservatives see this as a sign of moral decline. In response, some people turn to extreme ideologies as a defence. They see it as a way to protect their identity from outside influence. Pakistan lacks strong national filtering systems. Global platforms also apply inconsistent content moderation. Digital literacy remains low. Together, these gaps create a dangerous space where harmful ideologies can grow. This situation threatens Pakistan’s social unity and long-term security.

In Pakistan, media hype often decides which crimes get attention. When a case goes viral online, officials rush to act. High-profile cases like the Motorway or Hafizabad rape case get fast investigations because the media hype pressures the government and its institutions. But many other serious crimes, especially against the poor, murders or people in places like Balochistan, are forgotten. These cases pile up with no action. This creates an unfair system: justice depends on online buzz, not how bad the crime is. People lose faith in the system because it cares more about hype than fairness. It leaves many victims without help and breaks the promise of equal justice for all.

Key Contributing Factors:

1.          Sophisticated Extremist Propaganda: Non-state actors expertly use multimedia content to recruit and radicalise.

2.          Lack of Digital Literacy: Many users lack the skills to evaluate online information sources critically.

3.          Inadequate Regulation & Moderation: Weak enforcement of cyber laws and inconsistent platform moderation allow harmful content to persist.

4.          Socio-Economic Grievances: Frustration and marginalisation make individuals more susceptible to extremist narratives offering purpose and belonging.

5.          Cultural Clash: Exposure to vastly differing global norms creates friction and can trigger reactive extremism.

To address this crisis, a multi-pronged approach is needed. Digital literacy programs must be included in education. Credible voices should lead strong counter-narrative campaigns. Tech companies must moderate content responsibly. Legal frameworks should be strengthened while protecting individual rights. It's also vital to address the root socio-economic causes of alienation. Pakistan’s future stability depends on using the internet wisely and responsibly.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Himalayan Research Institute Pakistan - (THRIP)

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Dr. Saqib Khan Warraich is an Assistant Professor at GCU Lahore and an eminent scholar of terrorism studies. He can be reached at: [email protected]