Counting the cost

EDITORIAL: The International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, commemorated on August 21, was a painful reminder of the enormous price Pakistan has paid in the fight against terrorism.

The Foreign Office (FO) marked the occasion by drawing attention to the grim fact that more than 90,000 Pakistanis have lost their lives and that the country has suffered economic losses exceeding $150 billion in this struggle. Behind these appalling figures are families that have lost loved ones, communities that have endured fear and displacement, and generations whose social and economic progress has been disrupted.

The FO’s reference to 2025 as one of the deadliest years in more than a decade is particularly alarming. The continuing loss of civilians, security personnel, women and children underscores the stark fact that terrorism remains a serious threat to Pakistan’s peace and stability. At the same time, the issue requires a balanced and evidence-based approach. Cross-border militancy, financing, recruitment and the use of foreign sanctuaries are serious concerns that demand effective diplomacy, intelligence-sharing and international cooperation. Pakistan must continue to present credible evidence to the international community while strengthening its own institutions and border-security mechanisms.

Another important aspect of the statement is its recognition that the character of terrorism is changing. Terrorist groups increasingly exploit social media, cyberspace, encrypted communications, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies. Disinformation and misinformation can deepen social divisions and create mistrust, making the fight against extremism even more complicated. Countering this evolving threat therefore requires stronger cyber-security measures, digital literacy and effective action against online recruitment and propaganda, alongside conventional security efforts.

However, defeating terrorism cannot depend on force alone. Sustainable peace requires addressing the political, economic and social conditions that allow extremist ideologies to flourish. Education, employment opportunities, justice, good governance and inclusive development are essential components of a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy. The victims and survivors of terrorism also deserve sustained financial, psychological and social support rather than attention confined to commemorative occasions. Equally important are the protection of human rights and the rule of law in counterterrorism operations.

The FO’s statement also connects terrorism with unresolved conflicts, occupation and the denial of political rights, referring specifically to Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the Palestinian territories under Israeli occupation. These remain deeply sensitive and contested issues, whose peaceful resolution through international law, diplomacy and meaningful dialogue has remained elusive. Prolonged conflict and injustice only fuel anger and frustration, creating an environment that extremists often use to perpetrate acts of violence.

Pakistan’s enormous sacrifices should strengthen its determination to build a peaceful and prosperous society. Remembering the victims must therefore be accompanied by practical action to prevent future attacks, support survivors, improve governance and promote regional peace. Only a comprehensive strategy combining security, justice, diplomacy and development can reduce this country’s human and economic cost of terrorism and help secure a safe future for its citizens.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026