A Keynote Address on “Preventing Violent Extremism” was delivered by Mr. Azim Arshad on 5th May, 2026 at National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), Lahore for the participants of 46th MCMC. The Guest Speaker highlighted the strategic importance and policy relevance of preventing violent extremism and emphasized that contemporary approaches have evolved from purely kinetic responses towards integrated and preventive strategies. He explained that violent extremism is a complex and multifaceted issue requiring evidence-based understanding and coordinated national responses.

The speaker elaborated upon various drivers of violent extremism including relative deprivation, isolation, governance challenges, lack of exposure and ineffective communication strategies. Referring to several international studies and empirical evidence, he clarified that religion alone was not the primary driver of violent extremism and stressed the importance of quality education, critical thinking and inclusive governance in building resilience against extremist narratives. The speaker also emphasized the significance of balanced counter terrorism frameworks involving both kinetic and soft interventions along with citizen-centric governance and transparent institutional mechanisms.

The keynote address was followed by a detailed and interactive question-and-answer session in which participants actively engaged with the speaker on issues relating to governance, counter terrorism strategies, political stability, institutional coordination and the role of civil society in preventing violent extremism. The Guest Speaker responded comprehensively to the questions and highlighted the need for long-term policies, civic education, accountability and participatory approaches for sustainable peace and stability.