Shifting Sands: Political Dynamics in Pakistan

This chapter explores the influence of the landed gentry and military on Pakistan's political landscape, revealing the tension between traditional power structures and emerging activism. It discusses the recent challenges posed by young activists, particularly women, who have mobilized against entrenched elite dominance, highlighting shifts in public sentiment towards military actions. Overall, the chapter presents a nuanced view of resistance, illustrating both the brutality of oppression and the potential for significant change in Pakistani politics.

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Pakistan is an enchanting country, fertile and vast, with a talented young population and, at least on paper, all of the ingredients of a regional powerhouse. But the country is experiencing a tumultuous time. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan languishes in prison while the country’s military leaders use every greater coercion to maintain the status quo. Pakistan’s economy is faltering, and the brain drain of qualified professionals continues to leave the country, devastatingly affecting public services and businesses. To help us understand the sheer predicament many Pakistanis feel, we have Professor SherAli Tereen, who recently returned from the country, to share with us his experience and understanding of the underlying power dynamics of the country.

SherAli K. Tareen is the author of the award-winning books “Defending Muhammad in Modernity” (2020) and “Perilous Intimacies: Debating Hindu-Muslim Friendship after Empire” (2023) – he is currently a professor of religious studies at Franklin and Marshall College.

You can find Professor SherAli Tareen here:

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