Reviewing National Security Policy of Pakistan 2022-2026

 What does Pakistan's first-ever National Security Policy document say?

 Here in this article, I will explain what are they key features this policy document contain and what are the strategies will Pakistan going to make for its security.

National Security Division (NSD) began the process of formulating the policy in 2014. Rounds of consultations with federal ministries, provincial governments, governments of GB and AJK, military institutions and civil society members were done. 

It aims to fill the gap between traditional and non-traditional strands of security by bringing it under one comprehensive umbrella document; something that Pakistan has not had in its history.

ECONOMIC SECURITY:

Economic security is understood to have a key role. Sustainable growth, geo-economic connectivity, maritime sector, energy security, emerging technologies, globally competitive labor, fiscal management, and tax reforms discussed.

DEFENSE POLICY: 

In defense and territorial integrity, commitment to secure land, air, and sea borders, self-defense in the face of a regressive ideology in India, maritime security in the Indian Ocean, nuclear deterrence regime, and space, information, and cyber security written.

INTERNAL SECURITY:

Sec VI of the document is titled ‘Internal Security’. It lists terrorism, violent sub-nationalisms, extremism and sectarianism, narcotics and organized crime as challenges. Solutions include strengthening police and counter-terrorism forces, preventing terror financing, separating reconcilables from irreconcilables, inculcating interfaith and intersectarian harmony, deradicalizing via cooperation of religious scholars from every school of thought, and ensuring an independent, efficient and citizen-focused justice system.

 FOREIGN POLICY:

With regard to Foreign Policy on Sec VII. On Azad J&K, It states that PAKISTAN is committed to the people of Kashmir’s right to self-determination as per UNSC resolutions. On AFGHANISTAN, that security and stability for economic gateway with CARs. On CHINA, continued mutual engagement on all fronts. On INDIA, use of dialogue to create a bilateral relationship that is conditional on an end to occupation of Kashmir, military misadventures, Hindutva-driven policies, and disinformation. On U.S., not subscribing to ‘camp politics’ but finding points of convergence.

HUMAN SECURITY:

It dedicates a section to Human Security. Talks about population stabilization and management, urban planning, expansion of Sehat Sahulat health insurance program, technology-based health reforms, climate adaptation, sustainable water management, disaster preparedness sustainable food security, and gender equity of women and transgender persons in all avenues of public life. The NSD is responsible for monitoring the policy’s implementation. It will be reviewed yearly, and requires a well-coordinated approach for successful execution.