In a coastal shanty town, tragedy and hope live side by side

Originally published in Dawn Lined with garbage and plastic waste, Machar Colony’s broken, narrow streets are enveloped by the smell of rotting fish. Young children and youth wander aimlessly. Basic amenities are scarce, unemployment persists and crime is rampant. In most households, men go out to fish while women and children help make ends meet … Continue reading In a coastal shanty town, tragedy and hope live side by side

To rebuild a generation free from extremist idealogies, Pakistan must go back to the basics

I came across an excellent, and damning analysis published by the blog, The Brown Pundits, which explores the reasons why Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy law continues to find blind support among its masses, and is so difficult to repeal. Even if the law itself is repealed, what of the pervasive ideology that is constantly fed by the religious elite … Continue reading To rebuild a generation free from extremist idealogies, Pakistan must go back to the basics

Building schools to combat extremism in Pakistan

Originally published by The Guardian After Peshawar, Pakistan must not turn a blind eye to the connection between its ghost schools and the growth of radicalism in its most neglected regions  Eight years ago, I briefly held what was perhaps the best job in Pakistan. I was the documenter of good news. You see, good news … Continue reading Building schools to combat extremism in Pakistan