OBSTRUCTING PEACE: A STUDY OF THE STRUCTURAL BARRIERS UNDERMINING CIVIL SOCIETY’S PEACE-BUILDING EFFORTS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study was an endeavor to critically examine the structural barriers that hinder civil society peace-building initiatives in Pakistan. Pakistan has been facing ethnic and religious conflicts for a long time, and the state’s non-constructive responses have further aggravated the situation. Civil society emerged as an alternative channel for peace, but to date, it has failed to make an impression because of the structural barriers. The research revealed that there are three types of structural obstacles. A legacy of authoritarian rule, shaped by colonialism, military dominance, and weak democratic institutions, has created deep mistrust toward peace CSOs. Bureaucratic red tape, surveillance, and threats limit their ability to operate effectively. The state’s ideological alignment with conservative religious forces, supported by clerics and security agencies, has further marginalized pluralistic and rights-based narratives. Civil societies promoting inclusion are often branded as anti-state and un-Islamic, facing both legal and societal backlash. Additionally, civic engagement and volunteerism are weak and mostly informal, usually driven by religious motives rather than a broader vision for social change. The state’s security-first mindset diverts resources from social development. This study found that this process led to fragmented, reactive, and vulnerable civil society efforts, eroding public trust and limiting long-term impact. CSOs remain isolated and under-resourced, unable to challenge systemic injustices or contribute meaningfully to democratic development. The study concludes that sustainable peace in Pakistan requires a shift toward inclusive governance, ideological pluralism, and recognition of civil society as a legitimate partner. Reforms in education, media, and civic infrastructure, along with institutionalized state-CSO collaboration, are essential to enabling a more effective and transformative role for civil society in peace-building. This study employs a qualitative methodology and a descriptive and analytical approach. Primary data was gathered through interviews and personal observation. In contrast, secondary data includes books, academic articles, and reports. Researchers interviewed fifteen (15) activists and observed six (6) activities across five cities in Pakistan and conducted a thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and core issues.

Key Words: Conflicts, violence, peace-building, civil society, structural barriers, security, ideology, volunteerism, pluralism