Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Prosecution: Legal Gaps and Challenges in Addressing Radicalization
Keywords:
Radicalisation, Terrorism, Counterterrorism Law, Prosecution ShortcomingsAbstract
Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Prosecution: Legal Gaps and Challenges in Addressing Radicalization
Hasnain Hyder Shah
Advocate/ Independent Researcher
hasnainhydershahllb63@gmail.com
Rehana Anjum
Assistant Professor, Institute of Law, University of Sindh, Jamshoro
Arun Barkat
Assistant Professor, Institute of Law, University of Sindh, Jamshoro
AbstractThe global rise of radicalisation, violent extremism, and terrorism has led to the development of comprehensive national and international legal frameworks aimed at curbing these threats. However, in the context of Pakistan, the existing legal mechanisms have been widely critiqued for their inability to prosecute individuals involved in such activities effectively. The legal and policy measures taken by Pakistan to combat terrorism and extremism are critically examined in this paper, with an emphasis on the inadequacies in their execution and efficacy. Given Pakistan's geopolitical location, the country has been unable to shield itself from regional conflicts, resulting in a heavy toll. Additionally, the paper delves into the shortcomings in Pakistan's prosecution process, including inadequate investigative procedures, insufficient witness protection mechanisms, delays in trials, and lack of judicial expertise in handling complex terrorism cases. It argues for the need for comprehensive reforms, including capacity-building within the judiciary and law enforcement, the adoption of innovative investigative methods, amendments to procedural laws, and the introduction of clear, detailed legislation. This study employs a doctrinal approach to assess the structural and legal challenges Pakistan faces in countering terrorism, radicalisation, and violent extremism. The study concludes that terrorist organisations, which often operate with support from hostile foreign entities, are significant drivers of radicalisation and extremism, leading to profound social and economic losses for Pakistan. By addressing these gaps, this study aims to provide recommendations for strengthening Pakistan's legal and prosecutorial framework to more effectively combat and deter radicalisation and terrorism within the rule of law.
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