Peshawar, March 6, 2026 Speakers at a regional dialogue on Friday called for enhanced coordination between state institutions, lawmakers and civil society to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts and prevent violent extremism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The event, organized by the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) with support from the British High Commission, brought together parliamentarians, government officials, law enforcement representatives, academics and members of civil society to deliberate on improving counter-terrorism frameworks, legislative oversight and preventive strategies against violent extremism.
Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of SSDO, stressed that continued engagement between policy makers, oversight bodies and practitioners is vital to address evolving security challenges.
He noted that informed policy-making, stronger legislative engagement and institutional coordination can play a key role in combating terrorism.
Leading legislative expert Mohsin Abbas Syed highlighted existing national and provincial counter-terrorism laws, inter-agency coordination mechanisms, and the role of provincial governments in policy implementation.
He also stressed the preventive aspects of the National Action Plan, including reforms in religious institutes education decided.
The panel discussions focused on improving coordination on countering violent extremism, strengthening parliamentary oversight, and mentoring youth to prevent extremism.
Participants, including representatives of PTI, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), ANP and JUI-F, stressed the importance of legislative support, research-based policy making and cooperation between the government and the opposition for lasting peace.
In his closing remarks, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi stressed the need for collective action, institutional coordination and civil society engagement to strengthen the province’s response to terrorism.
He distributed shields to the participants in appreciation of their contributions to the dialogue.
Participants agreed that stronger inter-institutional cooperation, effective legislative oversight and investment in preventive measures are essential to address the root causes of violent extremism.