On Tuesday, 24^th March 2026, Mr. Azim Arshad delivered a lecture on “Terrorism, Violent Extremism and State Response” to the participants of the 39^th Senior Management Course (SMC) at the National Institute of Public Administration, Lahore. The session examined the evolving nature of terrorism and the challenges faced by Pakistan, which has been among the most affected countries by terrorism in recent decades.

Mr. Arshad analyzed the drivers of violent extremism in Pakistan, highlighting both structural and individual-level factors. He explained the role of push factors such as governance gaps, socio-economic inequalities, and political instability, alongside pull factors including identity, ideology, and group affiliation. He emphasized the process of radicalization within society and the state’s efforts toward de-radicalization.

Mr. Arshad examined sectarianism, nationalist movements, and insurgencies as key internal dimensions of extremism. He highlighted how regional and international actors often exploit existing fault lines, intensifying instability. He further discussed the rise of digital terrorism, noting how online platforms are increasingly used for recruitment, propaganda, and coordination, requiring a more adaptive and technology-driven state response.

Mr. Arshad critically reviewed Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategies, including the Revised National Action Plan 2021 and anti-terrorism laws. He noted that while kinetic approaches have achieved limited success, they are insufficient on their own. He stressed the need to transition toward integrated approaches that combine security operations with governance reforms, counter-narratives, and institutional coordination.

The lecture was followed by an intensive Q&A session.