Women can play important role in controlling extremism

Islamabad

Women can play an important role in controlling extremism as they are typically the first to recognise signs of resignation and anger in children or when their sons, daughters or husbands exhibit signs of violent ideologies.

The observation was shared at a dialogue on ‘Role of Women Parliamentarians in De-Radicalisation -- Options and Opportunities for Pakistan,’ organised by the Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) here on Thursday. The main objective of the dialogue was to familiarise women parliamentarians regarding issues related to radicalisation, militancy and their role in addressing the issue. Women parliamentarians from all mainstream political parties attended the dialogue and shared their observations.

In her presentation around the main topic, Technical Adviser for WPC Huma Chughtai said that because of the role of women within the family and civil society, women are strategically placed to serve as a voice of reason and can temper radical beliefs before they take roots. “They can also play very important role in bridging the social divides that contribute to violence,” she said.

Huma said that like most parts of the world, women in Pakistan hold enormous sway over decision-making within the home. “As mothers and teachers, they play a predominant role in raising children and instilling them with values,” Huma pointed out.

Huma advised women parliamentarians to develop alliances with experts within the academia and civil society for raising greater awareness regarding the role of women in peace-building and assuming a meaningful role in the processes and ensuring a visible inclusion in the policy and law making in this regard.

She said that women parliamentarians should become part of the counter narrative and utilise their lobbying skills and abilities to participate on key committees and positions, and making themselves heard in relevant discussions and debates.

She also suggested to women parliamentarians to increase the visibility of Pakistani women working to moderate extremism and create partnerships between individuals and groups working to promote women’s counter-extremism and peace-building efforts within their respective constituencies.

Human also recommended to WPC members to set up vigilant committees within their respective committees and organize capacity building sessions for local women to recognise and identify elements of radicalization within youth and boys. She also suggested promoting skill building and youth loan schemes to engage the youth in constructive and productive activities

Speaking on the occasion, WPC general secretary and member parliament Shaista Pervaiz Malik said that growing militancy and radicalisation has become one of the major global issues that is constantly challenging peace and security of the world. ”It has also become a stumbling block for national development, progress and prosperity. As a result, the socio economic realities around the globe are changing and there is growing militancy, radicalisation and disrespect for each other’s belief and culture. It is imperative that people at all level understand the issue, recognise it and deal with it at their respective levels,” she said.

Shaista was of the opinion that policy and lawmakers can play vital role in this regard as they are not only at the helm of affairs but have also a strong representative role and presence at grassroots level from where this problem can be recognised and dealt with.