IN Pakistan, where the country has faced terrorism, sectarian tensions, political polarization and various forms of extremism, the role of civil society has become increasingly important. The fight against extremism should not be understood solely as a security challenge. It is equally a social, educational, economic and cultural challenge. Security institutions can disrupt violent networks and protect citizens, but a durable reduction in extremism requires society to address the ideas, grievances, misinformation and social conditions that allow intolerance to take root. This is where civil society and young Pakistanis can make a meaningful contribution. Pakistan’s youth constitute a powerful force for national transformation. Millions of young people are connected through universities, colleges, professional institutions, social media platforms, sports, entrepreneurship and community organizations. Their influence extends far beyond traditional political or social structures. A young person who rejects hatred, refuses to spread inflammatory content and encourages dialogue can influence dozens or even hundreds of others.

Digital platforms have become an important front in the struggle against extremism. Extremist narratives do not always arrive in the form of openly violent messages. They can begin with dehumanizing language, fabricated information, selective historical claims or messages portraying an entire community as an enemy. Young people, who are among the most active users of digital........

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