Unit 11: Pakistan and Islamic World - Lecture Notes PDF

UNIT 11 PAKISTAN AND ISLAMIC WORLD Presented by Shazia Safwan  Unity of the Islamic World (Philosophy and Practice) Liberation Movements for Islamic States and Pakistan’s role Pakistan’s relation with Iran, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan Pakistan’s efforts for the unity...

UNIT 11 PAKISTAN AND ISLAMIC WORLD Presented by Shazia Safwan  Unity of the Islamic World (Philosophy and Practice) Liberation Movements for Islamic States and Pakistan’s role Pakistan’s relation with Iran, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan Pakistan’s efforts for the unity of the Islamic World.  Unity of the Islamic World (Philosophy and Practice) The unity of the Islamic world, often referred to as Muslim Ummah (community), is both a philosophical and practical concept deeply rooted in Islamic theology, history, and culture. This unity reflects the collective identity, shared values, and common goals of Muslims across the globe, transcending ethnic, racial, and national differences. Philosophical Basis 1. Quranic Foundations The Quran emphasizes the oneness of the Muslim community. For example: “Indeed, this nation of yours is one nation, and I am your Lord, so worship Me.”(Surah Al-Anbiya: 92)  “The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.”(Surah Al-Hujurat: 10) The concept of unity is tied to the belief in Tawhid (Oneness of God), which extends to the idea of a unified worshiping community. 2. Prophetic Teachings: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) likened the Muslim Ummah to a single body: “The believers, in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy, are just like one body. When one limb suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever.”(Sahih Muslim) He emphasized that all Muslims are equal regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status: “No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor is a white man superior to a black man, except by piety.”(Musnad Ahmad) 3. Core Principles: Faith (Iman): Unity is grounded in a shared belief in Allah, His Prophets, and the Hereafter. Brotherhood (Ukhuwwah): The Islamic worldview stresses mutual love, support, and cooperation among Muslims. Justice and Equality: The Islamic community is founded on principles of fairness and equitable treatment for all members. 4. Shariah (Islamic Law): A common legal and moral framework binds Muslims, providing a unified ethical code and shared practices such as prayer, fasting, and charity. Historical Manifestations 1. The Era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs (Rashidun): The early Islamic state under the Rashidun Caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali) symbolized a unified political and religious entity that served as an ideal for the Muslim Ummah. 2. Golden Age of Islam: During the Abbasid Caliphate and other Islamic empires, the Muslim world saw a remarkable blend of cultural, scientific, and intellectual exchange across diverse regions, unified by a common language (Arabic) and faith. 3. Hajj and Cross-Cultural Exchange: The pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) has historically been a powerful symbol of Muslim unity, bringing together believers from across the world in worship. 4. Defense Against External Threats: Throughout history, unity has been a key factor in the Muslim world's ability to resist external threats, such as the Crusades and colonialism. Practical Aspects of Unity 1. Ritual Practices: Unified religious practices, such as the five daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and observing the same Islamic calendar, foster a sense of solidarity. 2. Educational and Cultural Exchange: Islamic institutions like Al-Azhar University and historic centers like Baghdad, Cordoba, and Istanbul have served as hubs of knowledge, uniting scholars and students from diverse regions. 3. Humanitarian and Social Support: Islamic charities and zakat (obligatory almsgiving) create a network of mutual assistance within the community. 4. Contemporary Cooperation: Organizations like the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) aim to promote unity and address political, economic, and social challenges faced by Muslims globally. Challenges to Unity 1. Sectarian Divisions: Differences between Sunni, Shia, and other sects sometimes lead to political and social conflicts, undermining the vision of unity. 2. Political Fragmentation: The Islamic world is divided into nation-states with diverse political systems, often prioritizing national interests over communal goals. 3. Cultural and Linguistic Diversity: While enriching, the vast cultural and linguistic diversity in the Muslim world can also be a source of misunderstanding. 4. External Interference: Historical colonialism and modern geopolitical interventions have exacerbated divisions. 5. Globalization: Western cultural influences and modern secularism pose ideological challenges to the traditional Islamic worldview. Reviving Unity in the Contemporary Context 1. Interfaith and Intra-faith Dialogue: Encouraging conversations between different Islamic sects and with other religions can help build bridges of understanding. 2. Strengthening Institutions: The role of global Islamic organizations like the OIC can be enhanced to mediate disputes and foster economic and political alliances. 3. Educational Reforms: Revitalizing Islamic education to emphasize shared values and historical unity can counter divisive narratives. 4. Media and Communication: Utilizing modern platforms to promote the idea of a unified Ummah and counter misinformation. 5. Promoting Justice and Equality: Addressing socio-economic disparities within the Muslim world is essential to achieving true unity.  Liberation Movements for Islamic States and Pakistan’s role Liberation movements for Islamic states represent the struggle of Muslim-majority regions and communities to achieve independence, self-determination, or sovereignty based on Islamic principles. These movements often arise in response to colonialism, occupation, oppression, or denial of political, economic, and cultural rights. Pakistan, being an Islamic republic with a unique historical foundation rooted in the idea of Muslim self-determination, has played a significant role in supporting such movements globally. Below is a detailed description of the concept and Pakistan’s role. Liberation Movements for Islamic States Concept and Goals 1. Definition: Liberation movements for Islamic states aim to establish independent governance structures in territories where Muslims seek freedom from colonial, oppressive, or foreign rule. These movements often advocate for systems inspired by Islamic values, laws, and principles. 2. Goals: Achieving political sovereignty for Muslim-majority regions. Safeguarding Islamic identity, culture, and practices. Establishing justice and equality as defined by Islamic principles. Resisting foreign domination and ensuring self-determination.  # Historical Context 1. Colonial Legacy: Many Muslim regions were subjected to colonization by European powers, leading to the suppression of Islamic governance and culture. Liberation movements arose to counter this. 2. Post-World War II Decolonization: The mid-20th century witnessed the rise of nationalistic and Islamic-based liberation movements, particularly in regions like North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. 3. Contemporary Liberation Struggles: Ongoing conflicts, such as those in Palestine, Kashmir, and Chechnya, are driven by aspirations for self-rule under Islamic principles. --- Key Liberation Movements 1. Palestine: Palestinians seek liberation from Israeli occupation. Movements like Hamas and Fatah represent different approaches to achieving this goal, with a significant emphasis on Islamic governance by groups like Hamas. 2. Kashmir: The Kashmir conflict involves the demand for self-determination by the Muslim-majority population in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Groups like the Hurriyat Conference have advocated for liberation based on Islamic values. 3. Chechnya: The Chechen struggle against Russian control highlights the aspirations of Muslims in the Caucasus for an Islamic state.  4. Bosnia and Herzegovina: During the 1990s, Bosnian Muslims faced ethnic cleansing, and their liberation struggle aimed to preserve their identity and sovereignty. 5. Afghanistan: The Afghan resistance against Soviet invasion (1979–1989) was framed as a jihad, with support from various Islamic states and organizations. --- Pakistan’s Role in Liberation Movements # Ideological Basis 1. Two-Nation Theory: Pakistan’s very creation was based on the principle of Muslim self-determination, making it ideologically aligned with liberation struggles of Muslim communities worldwide. 2. Constitutional Mandate: Pakistan’s Constitution emphasizes support for oppressed Muslim populations and advocates for unity among Islamic nations.  # Political and Diplomatic Support 1. Kashmir: Pakistan considers Kashmir a core issue of its foreign policy. It has provided diplomatic, political, and moral support to the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination, advocating for the implementation of UN resolutions on a plebiscite. 2. Palestine: Pakistan has consistently supported the Palestinian cause, refusing to recognize Israel until Palestinian rights are ensured. It has been active in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and UN forums to advocate for Palestinian liberation. 3. Afghanistan: Pakistan played a key role in supporting the Afghan mujahideen during the Soviet invasion, aligning with the U.S. and other Islamic countries. It continues to support efforts for a peaceful and sovereign Afghanistan. 4. Bosnia and Herzegovina: During the Bosnian War (1992–1995), Pakistan provided military training, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic support to Bosnian Muslims.  # Military and Logistical Support 1. Training and Aid: Pakistan has been accused and acknowledged at times for providing training and logistical support to liberation movements, particularly in Kashmir and Afghanistan. 2. Nuclear Deterrence: Pakistan’s nuclear capability is often seen as a protective measure for Muslim states against external aggression, indirectly supporting liberation struggles. # Humanitarian Assistance 1. Refugee Support: Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees during decades of conflict, providing shelter and resources. 2. Humanitarian Aid: It has extended aid to Muslim-majority regions in crisis, including Palestine, Chechnya, and Bosnia.  # Challenges to Pakistan’s Role 1. Accusations of Proxy Warfare: Pakistan has been accused of using liberation movements as a means to pursue its geopolitical interests, particularly in Kashmir and Afghanistan. 2. International Pressure: Pakistan’s support for certain movements has led to tensions with countries like India, the U.S., and Israel. 3. Internal Security Issues: The support of cross-border movements has sometimes resulted in blowback, with militant ideologies spilling over into Pakistan. ---  Global Impact of Pakistan’s Role 1. Strengthening Muslim Unity: Pakistan’s efforts in liberation movements have strengthened its image as a defender of Islamic causes. 2. Contribution to Islamic Alliances: Pakistan has played a leading role in organizations like the OIC, pushing for collective action on liberation issues. 3. Controversy and Polarization: While appreciated by some Islamic nations, Pakistan’s involvement in liberation movements has also drawn criticism from Western and regional adversaries.  Pakistan’s relation with Iran, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan Pakistan's relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan are shaped by historical, religious, cultural, and geopolitical factors. These relationships are complex and have seen periods of cooperation, tension, and recalibration due to shifting regional dynamics and global influences. --- Pakistan-Iran Relations # Historical Context - Pakistan and Iran share a long border of 909 kilometers and have historical ties based on shared cultural and religious affinities. - Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan after its independence in 1947. - Both were members of CENTO (Central Treaty Organization) during the Cold War, reflecting alignment with Western interests. # Areas of Cooperation 1. Economic Ties: The two countries trade in goods like rice, fruits, and petroleum. However, the trade volume remains low due to sanctions on Iran and logistical challenges. The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline (also known as the Peace Pipeline) symbolizes their energy cooperation, although progress has been hampered by international sanctions and funding issues. 2. Cultural and Religious Affinities: Iran and Pakistan are linked by a shared Islamic heritage. Pakistan hosts a significant Shi’a Muslim population, fostering religious bonds.  3. Counter-Terrorism: Both countries face security challenges from extremist groups operating along the border and have discussed enhancing border security to curb terrorism and smuggling. # Points of Tension - Sectarian Issues: Pakistan’s close ties with Saudi Arabia sometimes strain its relations with Iran, given the Sunni-Shi’a divide. - Cross-Border Issues: Militants operating along the porous border have led to clashes and mistrust. Iran has accused Sunni extremist groups, such as Jundullah, of using Pakistani territory for attacks. - Regional Rivalry: Iran’s influence in Afghanistan and India-Pakistan tensions (especially Iran's relationship with India) have complicated bilateral relations. --- Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Relations # Historical Context - Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have enjoyed strong bilateral ties since Pakistan’s independence, built on mutual religious affiliation (both are Sunni-majority countries) and strategic interests. - Saudi Arabia has been a key financial and diplomatic supporter of Pakistan during crises. # Areas of Cooperation 1. Economic Assistance: Saudi Arabia has provided Pakistan with grants, oil on deferred payments, and loans during economic downturns. Saudi investors are involved in Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy sectors.  2. Defense Collaboration: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a deep military relationship, with Pakistani troops stationed in Saudi Arabia for training and security purposes. Pakistan has supported Saudi-led coalitions, although its role in conflicts like Yemen has been limited due to domestic political sensitivities. 3. Religious Diplomacy: As the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites, Saudi Arabia holds spiritual significance for Pakistan. Millions of Pakistanis perform Hajj and Umrah annually. 4. Diaspora and Remittances: Saudi Arabia hosts a large Pakistani diaspora, whose remittances are crucial for Pakistan’s economy. # Points of Tension - Yemen Conflict: Pakistan’s decision to remain neutral in the Saudi-led war in Yemen in 2015 strained ties temporarily. - Relations with Iran: Pakistan’s balancing act between Saudi Arabia and Iran often creates friction, as both rival powers seek Pakistan’s alignment. --- Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations # Historical Context - Pakistan and Afghanistan share a 2,670-kilometer-long border (Durand Line), which has been a contentious issue since Afghanistan does not officially recognize it. - Their relationship is shaped by ethnic ties (Pashtun and Baloch communities straddle the border), security concerns, and regional politics.  # Areas of Cooperation 1. Trade and Connectivity: Afghanistan is one of Pakistan's main export markets. Pakistan provides critical transit routes for Afghan goods via its ports. Cross-border projects, such as the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, highlight potential for economic collaboration. 2. Refugees: Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. 3. Cultural and Religious Links: Shared Islamic heritage and tribal connections underpin people-to-people ties. # Points of Tension 1. Terrorism and Cross-Border Militancy: Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring anti-Pakistan militants (e.g., the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan), while Afghanistan blames Pakistan for supporting the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network.  2. Durand Line Dispute: Afghanistan's refusal to recognize the Durand Line as an international border fuels mistrust. 3. Indian Influence in Afghanistan: Pakistan is wary of India’s growing role in Afghanistan, which it perceives as a strategic threat. 4. Taliban Relations: While Pakistan has supported the Taliban for strategic reasons, the group’s actions since taking power in 2021 have complicated ties, especially on issues like women’s rights, border security, and trade. # Recent Developments: - Pakistan has struggled to stabilize relations with the Taliban-led Afghan government, focusing on ensuring border security and economic cooperation while navigating complex regional dynamics.  --- Pakistan’s Balancing Act Pakistan must navigate a delicate balancing act in its relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan: - With Iran and Saudi Arabia, it seeks to mediate Sunni-Shi’a tensions while avoiding entanglement in their rivalry. - In Afghanistan, Pakistan aims to secure its western border and curb militancy, while promoting trade and connectivity. The interplay of domestic, regional, and international factors will continue to shape these relationships in the future.  Pakistan’s efforts for the unity of the Islamic World. Pakistan’s Efforts for the Unity of the Islamic World Pakistan has consistently emphasized the need for unity among Islamic countries, driven by its ideological foundation as a homeland for Muslims, its strategic position in the Muslim world, and its commitment to the collective interests of the Ummah (Islamic community). These efforts are aimed at fostering political solidarity, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and addressing common challenges faced by Muslim-majority nations. --- Key Areas of Pakistan’s Efforts # 1. Role in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Pakistan is one of the founding members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), established in 1969. It has actively participated in OIC initiatives to promote unity, resolve conflicts, and address global issues affecting the Muslim world. Pakistan has hosted several important OIC meetings, including: 1974 Lahore Summit, which was instrumental in addressing the Palestine issue. The 17th OIC Extraordinary Session (2021) focused on Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis under the Taliban regime. Pakistan has advocated for the OIC to play a stronger role in addressing issues such as: The Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The plight of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar. The persecution of Muslims in India and Kashmir. ---  # 2. Support for Palestine Pakistan has been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, calling for an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. It has consistently condemned Israeli actions in the occupied territories and worked to unify Muslim countries in their stance against Israeli aggression. Pakistan’s stance on Palestine has been a central theme in its efforts to foster solidarity within the Muslim world. --- # 3. Advocacy for Kashmir Pakistan has worked to garner the support of Islamic countries for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination under UN resolutions. It has raised the Kashmir issue in various Islamic forums, particularly the OIC, urging collective action against India’s policies in the region. Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts have focused on countering Islamophobia and highlighting the plight of Kashmiri Muslims under Indian rule. --- # 4. Mediation in Intra-Muslim Conflicts Pakistan has sought to mediate disputes between Muslim countries, understanding that internal divisions weaken the Islamic world. Notable examples include: Iran-Saudi Arabia Rivalry: Pakistan has attempted to mediate between these two regional powers, offering its services as a neutral player to reduce tensions, particularly in conflicts like Yemen. Qatar-Gulf Crisis (2017-2021): Pakistan maintained a balanced approach during the crisis, calling for reconciliation between Qatar and its Gulf neighbors, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Pakistan’s balanced foreign policy approach has aimed to prevent the fragmentation of the Muslim world.  --- # 5. Economic and Trade Cooperation Pakistan has supported initiatives to enhance economic ties among Muslim-majority countries, including: Strengthening intra-OIC trade. Advocating for shared projects like the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to finance development in Muslim countries. Pakistan has also called for Islamic countries to leverage their resources collectively, such as oil, to influence global economic policies. --- # 6. Combating Islamophobia Pakistan has taken a leading role in combating Islamophobia on the global stage, emphasizing the need for collective action by Muslim countries. At the UN, former Prime Minister Imran Khan highlighted the issue in speeches and called for OIC collaboration to address discrimination against Muslims. Pakistan has proposed a unified stance against policies targeting Islamic symbols, such as the hijab ban in some Western countries and depictions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). --- # 7. Promotion of Cultural and Educational Exchange Pakistan has hosted Islamic conferences to promote cultural exchange and religious understanding. Initiatives like scholarships for students from Muslim countries to study in Pakistan and participation in Islamic solidarity events reflect Pakistan’s commitment to cultural unity. Pakistan’s efforts include advocating for Islamic science and technology cooperation, such as through OIC programs. ---  # 8. Humanitarian Assistance Pakistan has provided humanitarian aid to Muslim-majority countries in times of crisis, such as: Assistance to Afghanistan during its humanitarian crises. Relief efforts for Muslim populations in natural disasters (e.g., Turkey, Indonesia). Support for Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. --- # 9. Defense and Security Cooperation Pakistan has emphasized military and defense collaboration among Muslim nations, advocating for collective security arrangements. Pakistani troops have participated in peacekeeping missions and provided training for militaries in Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Malaysia. Pakistan has supported initiatives like the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), led by Saudi Arabia, to counter terrorism in the Muslim world. ---  Challenges to Pakistan’s Efforts Despite its proactive role, Pakistan faces significant challenges in unifying the Islamic world: 1. Diverging Interests Among Muslim Countries: Political and economic rivalries, particularly between Saudi Arabia and Iran, hinder collective decision-making. 2. Lack of OIC Effectiveness: Critics argue that the OIC has limited impact on global issues, reducing its ability to act as a unifying force. 3. Global Pressures: Geopolitical factors, such as Western alliances and economic dependencies, complicate Pakistan’s role in advocating for Muslim unity. 4. Domestic Challenges: Economic instability and internal political issues sometimes constrain Pakistan’s ability to lead effectively on international platforms.