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Caregiver Burden, Marital Satisfaction, and Quality of Life among Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients

Hira Jamshed — 2025-10-27

This study delves into the intricate interplay among caregiver burden, marital satisfaction, and quality of life within the context of individuals caring for thalassemia patients. As thalassemia continues to impact families globally, understanding the dynamics influencing caregivers becomes imperative. This research endeavors to unravel the nuanced relationships between caregiver burden and caregivers’ marital satisfaction, as well as the implications for their overall quality of life. The study hypothesized a significant relationship between marital satisfaction, caregiver burden, and quality of life among caregivers of thalassemia patients, and a significant gender difference based on caregiver burden. A purposive sample of 180 participants (25% males and 75% females) with no age limit was recruited from different blood transfusion centers. To investigate the relationship between variables, three widely used instruments (in Urdu) were employed: Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), and World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF). A correlational and cross-sectional research design was used, and data were collected through a survey method. Findings indicated a noteworthy, non-significant weak positive correlation between marital adjustment and caregiver burden, and a significant positive correlation between caregiver burden and quality of life. Regression analysis further showed that caregiver burden significantly predicted quality of life, explaining 3% of its variance. The study highlights the interconnected nature of caregiver burden, marital satisfaction, and quality of life, emphasizing the need for psychological and social support for caregivers of thalassemia patients.

Keywords: Marital Adjustment, Caregiver Burden, Quality Of Life, Thalassemia, Pakistan

The Effect of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Consumption by Sportspersons and its Legal Upshots in Pakistan

Dr. Abida Abdul Khaliq — 2025-10-26

The present study is conducted to probe Anabolic Androgenic Steroids consumption by sportspersons. Steroids among other banned drugs, substances, and derivatives pairing are a core problem in the field of sports. Drugs necessitate in the field of sports to grant punishments, irrespective of one’s voluntary participation in the sports. The study is initiated with the historical evolution of the notion, Anabolic Androgenic Steroids, then the same extended towards the dilemma of present-day sports, legal recognition, and legislative measures of sports federations nationally and internationally in developed and underdeveloped countries. The need to study about reviving rules of ethics, morality, equality, fair play, and the true spirit of sports. The article further explores how the legal structures of developing countries are attempting to battle this new form of a banned substance and the efforts of developing and underdeveloped countries in framing rules and regulations for the control of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids at national and international forums. The Anabolic Androgenic Steroids consumed by sportspersons at the national level are not tested properly and are taken for granted while sportspersons repeat same practice at international events and competitions. This act not only is harmful and risky to their health but also brings a bad name and reputation to respective nations as well as defeating the spirit of sport. Later in the paper critical analysis of developed countries’ legislations and international measures in the field of doping and banned drugs control is evaluated to identify the lacuna in developing countries’ measures in the control of banned substances nationally and internationally. The paper also evaluates the efficacy of penalties for doping with the magnitude of danger and risk involved in the consumption of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids. In developed countries, the example of Canada is taken to examine their modus operandi, for combating this emerging problem in sports, regulating principles of justice, and reviving the moral and ethical values of sports. Moreover, it is illuminating the efforts of developing countries by citing the example of Pakistan’s anti-doping agency for controlling this ill practice in sports. Lastly, it is concluded that problem of doping is a global problem that may be resolved effectively through the formation of strict penalties including heavy fines that are to be imposed not only on the sportspersons but on everyone who is either directly or indirectly involved in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids consumption by the sportsperson. Independent commission or bureau to inspect the compatibility and effectiveness of said laws to bring reforms in the prevailing legal system for controlling the use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids and to promote education, ethic, and morals through the adoption of changing international trends in reviving the real spirit of sports.

Key Words: Anabolic Androgenic Steroids, Sports, Doping, Legislations, and Legal Reforms.

The Impact of Trade Sanctions and Export Control Laws on Global Business Operations

Syeda Shafaq Zahra — 2025-10-26

In an era of escalating geopolitical tensions, trade sanctions and export control laws have emerged as pivotal instruments of economic statecraft, profoundly disrupting global business operations. This mixed-methods study investigates their multifaceted impacts across technology, energy, and manufacturing sectors, drawing on primary data from surveys and interviews with executives from over 50 multinational corporations and small-to-medium enterprises, complemented by secondary analysis of OFAC, UN, WTO, and UN Comtrade databases. Findings reveal significant operational disruptions 25-35% extensions in supply chain lead times and 20-30% increases in logistics costs driven by rerouting and compliance pressures. Financial burdens are substantial, with annual compliance costs averaging $1.5-3 million per firm and regulatory fines exceeding $500 million in 2025. Strategic adaptations, including supplier diversification and market redirection, offer partial mitigation but introduce inefficiencies and innovation bottlenecks, particularly in AI and semiconductors. Sectoral disparities highlight technology’s acute vulnerability to R&D delays (35%) compared to energy’s supply volatility (18% delays). SMEs face disproportionate survival risks, underscoring structural inequities in regulatory exposure. Theoretically grounded in institutional, resource dependence, and transaction cost frameworks, the study addresses gaps in longitudinal resilience and SME-focused research. Practical implications advocate for AI-enabled risk screening, integrated compliance programs, and scenario planning. Policy recommendations call for multilateral harmonization of export controls and enhanced public-private intelligence sharing to reduce enforcement frictions. Despite limitations in sample scope and self-reported data, the research provides a comprehensive framework for building business resilience amid weaponized trade, urging adaptive governance to balance security imperatives with global economic stability.

Keywords: Trade Sanctions, Export Controls, Global Supply Chains, Compliance Costs, Strategic Adaptation, Geopolitical Risk, SME Resilience

Fiscal Policy Transmission and Inflation Dynamics: Insights from DSGE Model

Muhammad Kashif — 2025-10-26

This paper investigates the transmission mechanisms of fiscal policy and their effects on inflation dynamics using a medium-scale Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) model. The model integrates nominal rigidities (sticky prices and wages), forward-looking expectations, and a government sector that includes consumption, investment, taxation, and public debt dynamics. Researcher estimated the model for Pakistan using data source as World Development Indicators from 1990 to 2024, then simulated unanticipated fiscal shocks including increases in government consumption, public investment, and tax cuts, and trace their impulse responses for output, inflation, the output gap, interest rates, and debt over time. Results highlight several key findings. First, government consumption shocks generate a strong demand effect and lead to a temporary increase in inflation, which is constrained by monetary policy responses and resource constraints. Second, public investment shocks exert a less inflationary effect, due to their partial supply-side benefit over the medium run. Third, tax cuts tend to have inflationary consequences that depend on the structure of tax changes (e.g., consumption vs. income taxes). Fourth, the magnitude and persistence of inflation responses are highly sensitive to the degree of price and wage stickiness, the credibility of the fiscal framework, and the reaction function of monetary policy. Finally, in periods where monetary policy is constrained (e.g., at the zero lower bound); fiscal expansions have more pronounced inflationary impacts. The findings suggest that monetary–fiscal coordination is essential to stabilize inflation while achieving output stabilization. They also imply that public investment may be a more inflation–friendly component of fiscal stimulus compared to pure consumption spending. ARDL approach, Bound test with some diagnostic test will be employed in this analysis.

Keywords: Fiscal Policy, Inflation Dynamics, DSGE Model, Time Series Analysis, ARDL Model, Co-Integration

Innocence, Violence, and Sacrifice: An Analysis of Suffering in Hamza Hassan’s Short Story 'Lame Life'

Imran Aslam Sial — 2025-10-26

This article examines Hamza Hassan Sheikh's short story "Lame Life," concentrating on the themes of innocence, violence, and sacrifice as they relate to the protagonist's suffering. The present study examines the interplay of elements, including social injustice and the vulnerability of the marginalized community in Sheikh's work. It contends that systemic factors such as extreme poverty, entrenched patriarchal norms, and opposition to social progress disproportionately exacerbate the protagonist's suffering.

Key Words: pain, innocence, brutality, sacrifice, being on the outside, and societal injustice

Trauma and Resilience: Examining the Impact of the APS Massacre on Pakistani Society

Syeda Shahida Shah — 2025-10-26

This article attempts to explore the impact of the post-9/11 acts of terrorism in Pakistan. It particularly focuses on the devastating 2014 incident at the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The pervasive nature of terrorism, as viewed through the conceptual lens of Structural Violence (Galtung, 1969), suggests that violence built into societal structures exerts significant psychological and social impacts at the micro-level of the population. In order to quantitatively assess these psycho-social effects on individuals, the research utilized two established measurement instruments: Lieber’s scale of PTSD was supplemented to gauge the level of post-traumatic stress, and the Social Capital was measured through Fang’s (2008) ‘Personal Social Capital Scale’ (PSCS). The methodology employs a deductive, quantitative approach, comparing direct victims (those who suffered irreparable losses, such as parents of the deceased) against indirectly exposed victims (those who experienced reparable losses or indirect exposure). The results obtained from the statistical analysis indicate a number of key findings. Foremost, they confirm that the level of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is significantly higher for directly exposed victims compared to indirectly exposed victims. Correspondingly, the victims' social capital, i.e, the assets gained through social networks was found to be low among directly exposed victims than indirectly exposed victims. A notable and unanticipated finding was that male direct victims exhibited a significantly high level of PTSD and a lower level of social capital in comparison to women victims, suggesting that the intensity of structural violence varies amongst the demographics of the population. These empirical findings provide an addition to Galtung’s Structural Violence Theory by detailing its impacts at the micro-level and offer critical information for humanitarian aid organizations, including the government, for the effective management of victims in conflict-affected areas.

Keywords: Structural Violence, PTSD, Social Capital, APS Massacre, Psycho-Social Repercussions

Evolution of Electoral Politics and Populist Tendencies in Pakistan: A Historical Perspective

Asifa Shaukat — 2025-10-25

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution of electoral politics in Pakistan with a special focus on populist tendencies that have shaped its democratic trajectory. From the creation of Pakistan in 1947 to the general elections of 2018, Pakistan’s political system has witnessed alternating periods of military rule and democratic revival, often influenced by populist leaders who claimed to represent the will of the ‘common people’ against corrupt elites. The study emphasizes how figures such as Fatima Jinnah, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto, and Imran Khan used populist narratives to mobilize the masses and redefine the country’s political discourse. It further argues that while populism has broadened citizen participation and created new spaces for democratic expression, it has also contributed to political instability, weakened institutions, and polarized society. Drawing upon historical, descriptive, and comparative analysis, this paper situates Pakistan’s electoral history within broader global populist trends, offering a nuanced understanding of how populism simultaneously strengthens and undermines democratic development. The research concludes that the future of Pakistan’s democracy depends upon balancing popular mobilization with institutional accountability and inclusive governance.

Keywords: Evolution, Electoral Politics, Populist Tendencies, Pakistan

Digital Evidence in Pakistan: A Doctrinal Assessment of Admissibility and Reliability in Criminal Trials

Arshid Jan — 2025-10-25

The escalating digitalization of society has in-fact rendered digital evidence an essential element in contemporary criminal trials. However, in Pakistan, the implementation and appreciation of such evidence remain fraught with legal uncertainty, procedural flaws, and institutional inadequacy. This paper undertakes a doctrinal assessment of digital evidence within the Pakistani criminal justice system, analyzing the interplay between the antiquated legal framework and modern technical realities. The current evidentiary regime is primarily governed by the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order (QSO) 1984, the Electronic Transaction Ordinance (ETO) 2002, and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. While these legislations render digital evidence generally admissible under provisions like Article 164 QSO and ETO 2002, judicial interpretation often treats it as secondary or corroboratory evidence, demanding confirmation by ocular or physical proof before assigning significant probative weight. However, key legislative gaps persist. The gaps notably concerning ambiguous authentication requirements such as defining “working order” and ensuring “reliable assurance of integrity” and the lack of stipulated technical procedures like the use of hash values and metadata verification. This situation is further compounded by pervasive issues in maintaining the chain of custody and critical deficiencies in forensic infrastructure. This is where few law enforcement agencies possess certified digital forensic tools or internationally trained experts. Consequently, the Pakistani judiciary exhibits significant inconsistency and arbitrariness in evaluating digital evidence, jeopardizing the constitutional right to a fair trial (Article 10A) for defendants, particularly those unable to contest complex technical claims. The study concludes that legislative clarity, mandated judicial training, and substantial investment in forensic capacity are imperative steps to bridge the widening chasm between the law and technology, thereby ensuring digital evidence serves as a reliable instrument of justice in Pakistan.

Keywords: Digital Evidence, Admissibility, Reliability, Digital Forensics, Fair Trial Rights

History of the Line of Control

Muhammad Ansaar Mehsood — 2025-10-24

The Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan in the region of Jammu and Kashmir represents a complex boundary born out of historical conflicts between the two neighboring states. This research paper explores the evolution of LoC from its origin to its present status. The research paper explores the transformation of the Ceasefire Line (CFL) that was established under the Karachi agreement of 1949 following the first Indo-Pak war into the Line of Control (LoC) under Simla agreement in 1971. The paper examines military and political development that shaped the LoC. The origin of LoC can be traced back to the first war between India and Pakistan on Kashmir, which resulted in the formation of Ceasefire line. The demarcation of CFL was monitored by the United Nation Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). In Simla agreement, the CFL was modified and renamed as Line of Control. The paper also involves the analysis of territorial gains and losses by both countries during Indo-Pak wars which affected the LoC. It also covers the conflicts or ceasefire violations after the formation of LoC. Through historical analysis, this research aims to understand how the LoC came into existence and has influenced the Indo-Pak relation till now.

Keywords: Line of Control (LoC), Indo-Pak Relations, Kashmir Conflict, Ceasefire Agreement, Border Dispute

Impact of Gender Inequality on Maternal Health Outcomes: Mediating Role of Women’s Healthcare Utilization and Moderating Role of Cultural Attitudes

Sidra Shaheen — 2025-10-24

This study investigates the impact of gender inequality on maternal health outcomes, examining the mediating role of women’s healthcare utilization and the moderating influence of cultural attitudes within a South Asian context. Grounded in social determinants of health and gender-inequality frameworks, this research adopts a cross-sectional quantitative design using data collected from 220 women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. For accurate and validated results, this research study employed well-established and standardized measurement scales to ensure the reliability, validity, and accuracy of the findings. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS, applying mediation and moderation analyses with bootstrapping method to ensure robustness. Findings reveal that gender inequality exerts a significant negative effect on maternal health outcomes (β = –0.29, p < .001). Women’s healthcare utilization partially mediates this relationship (indirect effect β = –0.24, 95% CI [–0.35, –0.14]), indicating that reduced service use transmits the adverse influence of inequality. Moreover, cultural attitudes significantly moderate the association between healthcare utilization and maternal outcomes (interaction β = 0.16, p = .002), suggesting that egalitarian cultural norms amplify the positive effects of healthcare utilization. These results advance theoretical understanding by integrating structural, behavioral, and cultural dimensions into a moderated mediation framework. Policy implications highlight the need for gender-transformative and culturally adaptive interventions that simultaneously address structural inequities, enhance women’s healthcare utilization, and promote progressive cultural attitudes to achieve sustainable improvements in maternal health.

Keywords: Gender Inequality, Maternal Health, Healthcare Utilization, Cultural Attitudes

Relationship of Neuroticism Personality Trait with Transformational Leadership Style of Secondary School Administrators in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Dr. Asghar Ali — 2025-10-24

The study explores the magnitude of neuroticism personality trait (NPT), degree of transformational leadership style (TLS), and relationship between NPT and sub-factors of NPT with TLS. 640 school administrators were selected from the population. Multi multistage stratified random sampling technique was used in the selection of samples. NPT and TLS questionnaires were used for the purpose of data collection. Mean, standard deviation and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to analyze the data. Means were compared with the t test statistic, and ANOVA was used for the interaction effect of gender and school sector. Concluded from the results of the study that TLS has a statistically significant and strong negative correlation with NPT and their sub factors. Gender-wise statistically significant difference does not exist in the means score of NPT and TLS. The school sector-wise statistically significant differences exist in the means score of NPT at the 0.05 level of significance and do not exist in the means score of TLS. Gender and sector-wise interaction effect on TLS is statistically significance does not exist on the means score and Gender and school sector-wise interaction effect on NPT is statistically significance exist in the means score at 0.05 level of significance.

Key words: Neuroticism Personality Trait, Transformational Leadership Style, Secondary School Administrators, sub factors of Neuroticism Personality Trait

Negotiating Peace: Analyzing the Role of International Mediators in Protracted Conflicts

Kamran Malik — 2025-10-22

This study examines the role of international mediators in resolving protracted conflicts, analyzing their effectiveness and challenges through comparative case studies of Northern Ireland (1996–1998), the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (2009–2014), and Colombia’s FARC negotiations (2012–2016). Employing a qualitative methodology, the research integrates conflict resolution theory, ripeness theory, and bargaining theory to dissect mediation strategies and outcomes. Findings reveal that successful mediation, as in Northern Ireland and Colombia, hinges on inclusive processes, strategic leverage, and alignment with ripe moments, achieving significant violence reductions (95% and 90%, respectively) through trust-building and enforceable agreements. Conversely, the Israeli-Palestinian case illustrates how absent ripeness, biased mediation, and external spoilers undermine outcomes, perpetuating stalemates. Common challenges include mistrust, external interference, and power asymmetries, while contextual factors like regional dynamics and mediator credibility critically shape results. The discussion highlights the need for adaptive, hybrid strategies that blend theoretical insights to address structural barriers and incorporate innovative tools like digital diplomacy and gender inclusion. Implications for mediators, policymakers, and communities emphasize impartial yet proactive engagement, multilateral support to counter spoilers, and participatory frameworks to empower local agency. Despite limitations in case generalizability and potential retrospective biases, the study advocates for context-tailored mediation models to enhance durability in peace agreements. It calls for future research into understudied regions and emerging mediation techniques to address evolving global conflict landscapes, offering actionable insights for sustainable peacebuilding in protracted conflicts.

Keywords: International Mediation, Protracted Conflicts, Conflict Resolution Theory, Ripeness Theory, Bargaining Theory, Northern Ireland, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Phytophoric Anthroponyms in Baloch Culture

Iftekhar Ahmed Baloch — 2025-10-22

This study aims to explore the role of phytophoric names in Balochi anthroponymy, focusing on personal names derived from plants, their cultural, linguistic, and symbolic meanings. Phytophoric names in Balochi culture are often associated with qualities such as beauty, strength, endurance, and sacredness. The research seeks to document both existing and previously undocumented plant-based names, contributing to the preservation of this aspect of Balochi linguistic heritage. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including a thorough literature review, interviews with native speakers, and an examination of official records such as electoral rolls and school registers. A total of 52 distinct phytophoric names were identified, some of which had not been previously recorded in the literature. The results indicate that phytophoric names are more commonly used for women than for men, with wild plants being the predominant source. This research highlights the importance of documenting these names before they fade from use, especially given the shift in naming practices among younger, educated Baloch communities. The findings have implications for the preservation of Balochi cultural heritage and contribute to the broader field of anthroponomy, offering insights into the relationship between language, culture, and nature.

Keywords: Phytophoric, anthroponyms, Baloch culture, Balochi names, Balochi language

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment Patterns and Job Displacement

Amara Shahzadi — 2025-10-22

This study investigates the dual impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on employment patterns and job displacement, emphasizing the mediating role of organizational adaptation strategies and the moderating influence of education and training systems. Grounded in Task-Based Technological Change (TBTC) and Skill-Biased Technological Change (SBTC) theories, the research employs a quantitative, explanatory, cross-sectional design. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 220 employees and managers across diverse sectors actively implementing AI. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using SPSS and AMOS validated the hypothesized relationships. The results reveal that AI adaptation significantly transforms employment structures and induces job displacement (β = 0.29, p < 0.001). Organizational adaptation strategies partially mediate this relationship (β = 0.20, p < 0.001), indicating that proactive reskilling, job redesign, and human–AI collaboration mitigate displacement effects. Moreover, education and training systems significantly moderate both AI–organization (β = 0.17, p = 0.001) and organization–employment relationships (β = 0.15, p = 0.005), highlighting that robust learning ecosystems enhance workforce adaptability and resilience. The findings underscore that AI’s impact is contingent upon institutional preparedness, suggesting that technology alone does not determine employment outcomes. The study contributes theoretically by integrating TBTC and SBTC into a unified model and empirically by providing evidence from diverse economic contexts. Practically, it recommends that policymakers strengthen education and training infrastructures and that organizations invest in adaptive strategies to transform AI-induced disruption into sustainable employment opportunities.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Employment Patterns, Job Displacement, Organizational Adaptation, Education and Training, Task-Based Technological Change, Skill-Biased Technological Change

The Role of Input Enhancement in Grammar Acquisition among Graduate Students: A Study from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Zahid Sardar — 2025-10-21

Second Language Acquisition (SLA) has a perpetual and focal concern on grammar acquisition, especially when English is used as a foreign language like in Pakistan. Input improvement is one teaching method that has received growing interest and the goal of this technique is to render linguistic features more evident to students without being represented in a conspicuous grammatical manner. The study examines how input enhancement can support grammar acquisition by alumnus students in the public sector universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) in Pakistan. A quasi-experimental project has been used, which included 60 graduate students who were split into an experimental group (received input-enhanced texts) and a control group (received regular texts). Pre-tests and post-tests were controlled so as to test explicit linguistic knowledge and specifically passive voice and the relative clauses. The findings indicated that the experimental group achieved much higher gains than the control group and this implies that input enhancement certainly interferes with grammar learning at the graduate level. The article makes a contribution to the study of SLA in Pakistani context by bringing out the pedagogical importance of input enhancement among higher education learners.

Key Words: Second Language Acquisition, grammar acquisition, teaching method, grammar acquisition, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

The Impact of Orientalists on Muslim Society: An Analytical Study

Dr. Muhammad Irfan Ahmad — 2025-10-21

This research paper analyzed to the Orientalist movement, revealing it as not merely an academic pursuit but a complex system of power and dominance that profoundly impacted Muslims societies. By portraying the east as the inferior other orientalism created a deep seated cultural divide. Its influence extended across educational institutions, religious thought, social structures and political systems, leading to a significant crisis of identity within the Muslim world. While it inadvertently spurred a critical study of Islamic sciences, its primary legacy was shaping a narrative that served colonial interests. Today its effects persist in modern forms like Post Orientalism, which continues to propagate stereotypes through media, social media and popular culture.

Keywords: Colonialism, Intellectual Impact, Islamic Studies Muslim Societies, Orientalism and Religious Thought

Embedded Autonomy and Strategic Hedging: Turkey’s Redefinition of NATO Dependence (2020–2025)

Mah Noor — 2025-10-21

The paper discusses how Turkey is redefining into a state of strategic autonomy as opposed to relying on NATO between the years 2020 and 2025. It examines how the process of industrialization on defense, diversification of energy, and foreign policy activism have re-established the role of Ankara in NATO. Through a qualitative and historical method, the study holds that Turkey has embedded a system of embedded autonomy and has balanced alliance commitments and national sovereignty. The increase in domestic defense industry, including ASELSAN, TAI, and Baykar, alongside S-400 crisis, CAATSA sanctions, and the shift of local military industries shows this change. The results suggest that the Turkish autonomy is not the withdrawal of NATO but re-structuring of the alliance politics, which embodies the new strategies of cooperation, independence and middle power politics

Keywords: Embedded Autonomy, Strategic Hedging, Turkish Foreign Policy, NATO Dependence, Security Realignment

An Analysis of the Quranic Narrative of Abraham (AS) and Orientalist Criticisms

Rashad Manzoor — 2025-10-21

This research paper consider the socio-religious aspects and the modern relevance of the chosen topic of discussion. The paper discusses the historical context, the major theological debates and societal influence of the problem in classical and contemporary society. Relying on primary sources of Islam the Quran, established collections of authentic Hadith and the views of early jurists the paper points to the principles according to which the classical scholars shaped their legal and ethical views. It subsequently contrasts these classical stances with the current academic discourses and policy debates bringing out similarities and differences. The research techniques are qualitative textual analysis based on authoritative commentaries, fiqh literature and current peer-reviewed literature to construct a logical argument. The results show that the core Islamic doctrines do not change; however, the way they are applied to contemporary issues in the society should be carefully contextualized. Social justice, ethical governance, the tension between tradition and innovation are issues around which the discourse revolves. The study indicates that the interpretation of the spirit (maqāsid) of the Shariah, its goals of justice, mercy, and common good are essential to responding to the realities of the present without losing the essential values. In addition, the paper provides certain practical suggestions to scholars, educators and policymakers so as to close the divide between historical jurisprudence and the contemporary socio-economic reality. These involve revisiting the classical interpretations, in the presence of the modern evidence, multidisciplinary dialogue, and community awareness programs through culturally sensitive and theologically sound programs. Finally, the research also adds to the current academic discourse by proving that an active but also principled interaction with Islamic sources could offer potential solutions to existing challenges. It highlights the importance of intellectual receptiveness, moral accountability and profound understanding of the comprehensive vision of Islam in the leadership of the contemporary society.

Keywords: Islamic Jurisprudence, Socio-Religious Analysis, Contemporary Application, Maqāsid al-Shariah, Ethical Governance, Classical and Modern Perspectives, Qualitative Textual Analysis

The Legal Challenges of Franchising in Pakistan’s Commercial Sector

Uzair Junaid — 2025-10-20

Franchising has become one of the vibrant business models in Pakistani developing commercial environment and this provides growth opportunities to foreign and local business entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, the legal framework that is involved in franchising is still immature and disjointed. Although some elements of Pakistani law related to commercial regulations include contract formation, intellectual property, and competition management, it does not allow both a unified or a franchise-focused legal system. This gap in the law leaves both the franchisors and the franchisees in ambiguities that are characterized by inconsistency in the contractual performances, inadequate enforcement process and ambiguity in regulations.

The current paper takes a sharp look at the legal issues that surround franchising in the commercial industry in Pakistan. It is started with conceptual overviews of the franchising mode, and it is pointed out that there is its significance in global and local markets. The paper proceeds with the evaluation of the existing commercial law regime in Pakistan by major legislations including the Contract Act 1872, the Intellectual Property Organization Act 2012, the Competition Act 2010, and other provisions on taxes that indirectly impact franchising systems. They emphasize especially the difficulties associated with a deficiency of disclosure requirements, mechanism of dispute resolution and protection of proprietary business aspects.

This paper also gives a comparison of how other jurisdictions of advanced franchising law, Britain and Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates, come up to any meaningful comparative significance in illustrating some regulatory approaches that Pakistan can adopt. These global procedures lay importance on transparency, standardization, and legal certainty, which are the weaknesses of the framework of Pakistan.

In addition, institutional and policy-level gaps discuss the research, e.g. the establishment of a specific regulatory body, unequal treatment of foreign franchise agreements, and the absence of national policy of franchising. These restrictions discourage foreign investment as well as stunt domestic franchise since service sector and retail sectors.

Finally, the paper recommends a law that should be wholesomely overhauled to reflect the Pakistani socio-economic reality. It suggests the development of a Franchising Act which will unite the available rules and provide the new ones aimed at registration, disclosure, application, and dispute resolving. This sort of reform would be necessary to instill some trust, attract investment, and create a sustainable growth within the franchising industry and, therefore, contribute to a broader commercial development program in Pakistan.

Key Words: Franchising, Commercial Law, Pakistan, Legal Framework, Foreign Investment, Regulatory Reform

Gender Justice in Islamic Law and the Pakistani Legal System

Ayesha Azam — 2025-10-20

This study explores the complex intersection of gender justice, Islamic law, and the Pakistani legal system. Specifically, it evaluates the alignment between Islamic jurisprudence and contemporary standards of gender equality, highlighting the tension between traditional patriarchal interpretations and modern human rights principles. The research investigates Qur’anic teachings, Hadiths, and the Pakistani Constitution, focusing on women’s rights in marriage, inheritance, and social participation. The study further examines the evolving legal frameworks in Pakistan, such as the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance and the Transgender Persons Protection Act, and their impact on gender equality. Ultimately, it argues for a reinterpretation of Islamic law through ijtihad and the implementation of more effective legal reforms to bridge the gap between religious doctrine and gender justice.

Keywords: Gender Justice, Islamic Law, Pakistani Legal System, Feminist Legal Theory, Human Rights

Impact of Schools Heads Passive Communication Style on Teachers’ Emotional Stress at Secondary Level in District Bannu

Rifat Ullah — 2025-10-20

Success in the school is often attributed to the communication styles of the school's heads’, specifically to how they manage the emotional state of the teachers. However, there is still a lack of information on how the communication styles of school head’s affect the emotional stress of their teachers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the schools heads’ communication styles and its impact on teachers’ emotional stress at secondary level in Bannu District. The study was descriptive in nature so descriptive survey design was used by the researcher to conduct the study. All 130 (Male/Female) secondary schools and all 1627(Male/Female) secondary schools’ teachers working of Bannu district was the population of the study. Stratified sampling technique was used to draw sample for the study. The sample size was justified using Krejice & Morgan (1970) formula. The sample of the study was comprised of 56 secondary schools and 327 secondary school male and female teachers working in secondary schools in Bannu District. Two questionnaires for the teachers were used to collect data from the sampled respondents. The collected data was analyzed by using Mean, Standard deviation. Independent samples Mann-Whitney U test were used to find out required findings and conclusions. Eventually recommendations were made by the researcher. It was found that passive communication style was up to the mark in all phase, while head ignored situation which needs solution on urgent basis. Similarly mean scores of emotional stress items in the scale fall as the average showing that teachers’ emotional stress was not up to the mark in all phase. Government may ensure school heads’ to practice best methods of interacting with their teachers in order to reduce stress levels among teachers. The government may conduct seminars, meetings and workshops where teachers should be provided teaching roles and given the opportunity to evaluate the merits of various targeted communication styles for them.

Keywords: Heads Passive Communication Styles, Teachers Emotional Stress, Secondary Level Bannu

Imam Muhammad ibn al-Hasan al-Shaybani: Biography and Intellectual Legacy

Hafiz Amir Shahzad — 2025-10-20

Imam Muhammad ibn al-Hasan al-Shaybani (132-189 AH / c. 750-805 CE) stands out in Islamic legal history as a pioneering jurist whose contributions significantly shaped the discipline of siyar the classical body of Islamic international law that governs relations among states, particularly between Muslim and non-Muslim polities. Drawing upon his teacher Abu Hanifah’s lectures, as well as hadith, Qur’an, and the accumulated practices of early jurists, al-Shaybani authored major works such as Al-Siyar al-Kabir and Al-Siyar al-Saghir. His treatises systematized rules for war and peace, the rights and obligations of noncombatants, diplomatic immunity, treaties, and the formalities of interstate conduct. Al-Shaybani has been credited by many modern scholars as the “father of Muslim international law”, a title that reflects both his early articulation of legal norms for international relations and the lasting influence of his ideas. Comparatively, his work prefigures many concepts later seen in Western international law, such as jus ad bellum (just causes for war), duties to protect innocents, and the binding nature of treaties. A study of al-Shaybani’s legal methodology reveals that he combined rigorous textual sources (Qur’an & Sunnah) with reasoned analogy (qiyās) and consensus (ijmāʿ) to derive principles suited for inter-communal and interstate interactions. The relevance of his work persists in contemporary debates over international humanitarian law, diplomatic practice, and the rights of religious minorities.

Keywords:Imam al-Shaybani; Siyar; Islamic international law; law of war and peace; treaties; non-combatants; diplomatic relations; Hanafi jurisprudence; classical Islamic legal methodology; comparative law

Lack of a Unified Global South Voice in Climate Discourse an Ecofeminist Perspective

Ms. Mahnoor Nosherwan — 2025-10-20

This research precisely divides the profound and persistent fragmentation of the Global South’s voice in international climate discourse. Particularly challenge the conventional wisdom that attributes this disunity to mere diplomatic failures. It posits a more radical and devastating explanation. This crisis is a logical and inevitable outcome of the deeply entrenched, intersecting systems of patriarchy, colonialism, and global capitalism. In this research rigorous ecofeminist theoretical framework has been followed. This study systematically refutes materialist rationalist views and instead argues that the climate crisis is a catastrophic symptom of the same hierarchical ideologies; that sanction the relentless exploitation of both women and nature. Through a qualitative discourse and historical analysis of negotiation texts, institutional reports, and grassroots movements, the paper reveals how the structural reality of "climate colonialism" and the pervasive, pro growth rhetoric of global governance actively reproduce divisions within the Global South. The research concludes that genuine solidarity and a truly effective political voice cannot be achieved by merely reforming a system designed to thrive on such disunity it demands a radical, transformative, and justice oriented paradigm rooted in the decolonial and intersectional praxis of women led movements on the frontlines of the crisis.

Keywords: Ecofeminism, Global South, Climate Justice, Colonialism, Patriarchy, Discourse Analysis

Post-Conflict Reconstruction of Social Capital in Dara Adamkhel, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Saiqa Bibi — 2025-10-19

This qualitative study examines the impact of militancy on social capital and its post-conflict reconstruction in Darra Adam Khel, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Data was collected through 40 in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with elders, educated individuals, and students of both genders, and analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that militancy catastrophically eroded the region's social fabric. Core sociocultural values like unity, brotherhood, and cooperation were supplanted by individualism and distrust. Key institutions, including the conflict-resolution Jirga and the social hub Hujra, were co-opted or destroyed, losing their traditional authority. A complex gendered impact was observed; while women's status improved through educational access, they remained excluded from economic benefits and traditional justice processes. A generational divide in perceptions emerged, with youth favoring post-merger changes while elders yearned for past traditions. The study concludes that militancy systematically dismantled social capital, requiring a nuanced reconstruction approach. It recommends prioritizing conflict-free development, rebuilding educational infrastructure, and implementing inclusive policies that address the specific losses in trust, institutional integrity, and community cohesion to foster sustainable recovery.

Keywords: Social Capital, Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Darra Adam Khel, Militancy, Jirga, Sociocultural Values

Narrative Voice in Sur Sassui of Shah Jo Risalo of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai

Muhammad Hassan Khoso — 2025-10-19

This study aims to highlight the deployment of the narrative voice as a narrative technique in Sur Sassui of Shah Jo Risalo. The analysis of the Sur is made in the light of the theoretical framework of classical narratology based on the core narrative category of narrative voice. The narrative voice is that of the homodiegetic narrator who employs the narrative tools such as autodiegetic narration, narratee signals, the first-person and the second person linguistic references, action-oriented words or phrases, and rhetorical addresses. The selected poetic lines of Sur Sassui were textually analyzed with a close reading technique in the light of the theoretical framework based on the core narrative category of narrative voice. The analysis revealed that Sassui, the protagonist character of the Sur, appears as a homodiegetic narrator and employs above above-stated narrative tools for communicating her personal experiences to her silent narratees. She introduces herself in the first person and her narratees in the second person linguistic references. She also interacts with her narratees by creating an ‘I-you’ narrative situation. With the help of narrative tools of action-oriented words or phrases and rhetorical addresses, Sassui shares her painful experiences of separation from her beloved husband. Conclusively, this study suggests that Sur Sassui of Shah Jo Risalo possesses narrative aspects that function as structural aspects. In addition, this study also recommends that some other sources of Shah Jo Risalo can be studied from a structural perspective.

Keywords: Narratology, Sur Sassui, Shah Jo Risalo, Narrative voice, Homodiegetic narrator, and narratees.

Exploring Intertextuality and Authorial Intent: A Comparative Analysis of Baaba Sillah’s Pencum Taakusaan and Dabbali Gi

Momodou Lamin Demba — 2025-10-19

Baaba Sillah’s 2010 publications: Pencum Taakusaan (poetry) and Dabbali Gi (novel) contain passages that are identical in both content and structure. Is it a coincidence or is it by choice? This study, therefore, investigates how Sillah deliberately transfers these selected poetic texts from Pencum Taakusaan into the prose narrative of Dabbali Gi, reshaping them as thematic and symbolic elements within the fictional world. A close reading of poems like “Griot’s Lament,” “The Draft,” and “Gaza’s Body Parts” to explore how these texts incorporate and reshape themselves demonstrates that these poems become important spaces for remembering cultural heritage and expressing opposition to political issues. The approach in this study is anchored on Julia Kristeva’s concepts of intertextuality to show how Sillah’s prose and poetry engage in dialogue with each other. The paper uses a postcolonial theoretical framework to argue that Sillah’s approach destabilizes colonial hierarchies of genre and voice while emphasizing the psychological and historical effects of colonialism and neocolonial violence. Sillah’s intertextual strategy becomes not only a tool for reclaiming agency but also a tool for challenging literary boundaries imposed by colonial epistemologies.

Key words: intertextuality; authorial intent; Dabbali Gi; Pencum Taakusaan; Baaba Sillah

A Comprehensive Overview of Federal Government Schools: The Need, Importance, and National Responsibilities of the Recruitment System

Mr. Abdul Ghafoor Nawaz — 2025-10-19

This study presents a comprehensive overview of federal government schools in Pakistan, focusing on the critical connection between educational standards, recruitment systems, and national responsibilities. It highlights how transparent, merit-based teacher recruitment plays a pivotal role in improving educational performance and institutional efficiency. The paper explores the alignment between recruitment principles and curricular goals, emphasizing the necessity of institutional training, professional development, and sustainable educational practices. Furthermore, it identifies key challenges faced by the federal education sector, including inadequate budget allocation, administrative inefficiencies, and weak monitoring mechanisms. Drawing on recent government policies, educational reports, and contemporary studies, the research underscores the importance of reforming recruitment procedures to ensure fairness, accountability, and competence within the teaching workforce. It also emphasizes the collective role of the government, teachers, parents, media, and civil society in enhancing educational outcomes and promoting transparency. Through a comparative lens, the paper references international examples to demonstrate best practices in recruitment and educational governance. The findings advocate for the establishment of modern teacher training institutes, performance-based promotion systems, and effective monitoring frameworks to strengthen Pakistan’s federal education system. Ultimately, this study asserts that education reform rooted in transparency, professionalism, and shared responsibility is essential for achieving national development goals and fostering a culture of quality learning across the country.

Keywords: Federal Government Schools, Teacher Recruitment, Educational Standards, Merit-Based System, Professional Development, Educational Reform, Pakistan, Transparency, Policy Implementation, National Responsibilities

Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom: Teachers’ Lived Experiences and Ethical Concerns in Educational Integration

Dr. Muhammad Asim Rehmat* — 2025-10-19

This study focused on identifying the opportunities and challenges posed by emerging technologies within education, based on a qualitative examination of teachers' experiences with AI integration in classrooms. The authors observed teachers appreciating the advantages AI offered in terms of custom and individualised learning, lessening the burden of administrative work, and obtaining real-time learning analytics. Such features were perceived as contributing to enhanced efficiency and a more adaptive responsive instruction. Nonetheless, teachers also highlighted the ethical issues, data safety, and the risks associated with the educational process becoming overly mechanised as problematic. Thematic analysis pointed to digital literacy, professional development, and organisational policy as aspects that shaped teachers’ experiences. The provision of training and materials was linked to higher confidence in AI use, while a lack of instruction and materials was associated with skepticism and apprehension. In themes, the results revealed the critical role of making teacher perspectives central to policy and practice to make AI integration relevant to education and its influence on student well-being. The integration of AI cannot be viewed as a replacement for human teaching, and it should be considered as a complement to it. To adopt it in a meaningful way, there must be a balance between technological innovation and the ethical responsibility and empowerment of teachers.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Teachers' experience, Education, Classroom Integration

Marxist Analysis of Racism in “Behold the Dreamers” By Imbolo Mbue: Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

Nimra Maryam — 2025-10-18

This research focuses on Marxist analysis of racism through textual references and their alignment with Sustainable Development Goals specified by United Nations. The goal of this research is to highlight racism, class struggle, labor and exploitation of immigrant black Africans and the factors that resulted in the migration of these Africans. Racial hegemony is analyzed through Cameroonian family, who migrated to New York in the midst of financial crisis of 2008, unraveling inequalities, racial discrimination and economic struggles keeping in mind the historical clash of Africa and America. This study reveals these factors by delving into the characters’ experiences, illuminating the unequal dispersal of resources and opportunities based on race and class. The qualitative approach is used based on textual references for the Marxist analysis and the interrelation with sustainable development goals. This research highlights the significance of addressing racism to accomplish SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong institutions). In order to lessen racial inequities and accomplish sustainable development, it highlights the necessity of tearing down institutional obstacles and promoting fair access to social justice, economic resources, and education.

Key words: Marxism, class struggle, racial hegemony, immigrant group, labor and exploitation

From Domestic to Modern: A Study of the Portrayal of Women in Pakistani Drama (2000–2025)

Dr. Nazia Anwar — 2025-10-18

Traditionally, Pakistani television dramas have influenced the gender roles in the mind of the people. The image of women has changed between 2000 and 2025 where women were dominated to an image of contemporary autonomy. This development indicates larger social and ideological shifts in the Pakistani society. The current research analyses the way female figures have evolved in the last 20 years, codes of language and visuality that create femininity, as well as whether these depictions represent true empowerment or hidden patriarchy. Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) has been used to examine the selected dramas of 2000-2025 and identify similar patterns, dialogues and framing. Feminist media theory facilitated the understanding of ideological meanings that were enshrined in such texts. The analysis has shown a shift in the representation towards hybrid images, women are shown to be modern and ambitious but are trapped in the net of moral and family values. The Pakistani dramas show more and more challenging female personalities that represent the continuous negotiation process between the traditional values and the modern concept of womanhood.

Keywords: Domestic, Modern, Portrayal, Women, Pakistani Drama.

The Role of International Organizations in Contemporary Conflict Resolution: A Focus on the United Nations in Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine (2020–2024)

Hifza Noor — 2025-10-18

In the post-2020 global political landscape, intensification of armed conflicts has become its hallmark. These conflicts are particularly marked by complex issues. These issues includes: humanitarian crises, fractured international alliances, and diminishing faith in multilateralism. The United Nations (UN), however continues to serve as the principal international organization. It is mandated to maintain peace and security. Nevertheless, it continues to confront unprecedented challenges to its legitimacy and effectiveness. This article, therefore, attempts to examine UN’s contemporary role in conflict resolution. The examination is through an analytical focus on three emblematic crises: Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. These cases represent varying dimensions of conflict, i.e., the collapse of a state and re-emergence of authoritarian rule, a protracted civil war characterized by external intervention, and a large-scale interstate war in violation of the UN Charter. The present research uses a qualitative, document-based methodology. It explores the UN’s mediation efforts, peacekeeping mechanisms, and humanitarian responses from 2020 to 2024. It has analyzed official UN reports, Security Council resolutions, and policy literature. In the context, it is to assess both the organization’s operational capacity and its structural constraints. The research findings reveals that though UN remains central to normative legitimacy and humanitarian coordination, however, it has become increasingly reactive rather than preventive. In the context, the paralysis is observed to be due to the Security Council and the resurgence of great-power rivalry. In Afghanistan, for example, UN sustains humanitarian operations under Taliban rule but lacks political leverage. Furthermore, in Syria, it has preserved fragile humanitarian corridors despite increasing diplomatic deadlock. In Ukraine, UN has defended international law through moral authority; however, it is unable to enforce compliance. The article concludes that revitalizing the UN’s peace architecture through Security Council reform, enhanced early-warning diplomacy, and stronger partnerships with regional organizations is essential for restoring its credibility and relevance in twenty-first-century conflict resolution.

Keywords: United Nations, conflict resolution, peacekeeping, diplomacy, Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine

Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Instructional Leadership Effectiveness among Public Secondary School Head Teachers

Dr. Muhammad Shabbir — 2025-10-17

The effectiveness of instructional leadership in schools is increasingly understood through the lens of emotional intelligence (EI), which encompasses self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, motivation, and social skills. This study investigated the predictive relationship between emotional intelligence and instructional leadership effectiveness among public secondary school head teachers in Punjab, Pakistan. A quantitative correlational research design was employed with a sample of 120 head teachers (60 male and 60 female) selected through stratified random sampling. Standardized scales based on Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence Model and Hallinger’s Instructional Leadership Framework were used for data collection. Results revealed a strong positive correlation between emotional intelligence and instructional leadership (r = 0.68, p < 0.01). Regression analysis confirmed that emotional intelligence significantly predicted instructional leadership effectiveness (β = 0.57, p < 0.001). Findings suggest that emotionally intelligent school leaders are more capable of fostering collaborative climates, motivating teachers, and enhancing school performance. The study recommends integrating emotional intelligence development into leadership preparation programs for head teachers to improve instructional quality in Pakistani schools.

Keywords: Emotional Intelligence, Instructional Leadership, Educational Management, Head Teachers, Public Secondary Schools, Pakistan

The Impact of Climate Change on Women's Livelihoods and Well-Being in Balochistan

Shah Khalid Baloch — 2025-10-17

Climate change is a universal problem that has the far reaching consequences with the greatest influence on groups most vulnerable to it especially the women in the developing world. The given case study analyzes the impact of climate change on the livelihood and health of women in Balochistan (Pakistan) in various ways. Balochistan, with its dry climate and socioeconomic barriers is one of the regions with many climatic related problems such as droughts, disorderly rainfall and heat waves. In this research, the researchers explained how climate change exacerbates gender inequalities in Balochistan by widespread literature review. The region is still more sensitive to women, as they are the ones who do farming, who take care of the home and make the community stronger yet have an unfair share of the resources and power. Secondary information revealed that the variability of the climatic system affects the process of agriculture, reducing the crop harvest and complicating the role of women as caregivers and food providers to their families. Their issues are aggravated due to the lack of water and natural resources, which cause impact on their physical and psychological health. Education and employment are also denied to them which makes adapting to such changes even more difficult. To address the impacts of the climate change issues on women in Balochistan we require a practical and comprehensive plan which encompasses policies and measures put in consideration the gender factor. Such things as facilitating the education of women, health care and employment, more women in decision-making processes, and sustainable agricultural practices that are capable of supporting variability in the weather are part of this.

Keywords: Climate Change, Vulnerability, Women’s Livelihoods, Women’s Well-Being

The New Silk Road Gamble: Can China Turn Afghanistan’s Chaos into a Connectivity Win

Tariq Aziz — 2025-10-17

This article critically examines China’s evolving engagement with Afghanistan within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), focusing on the post-2021 geopolitical landscape following the Taliban’s return to power. It explores how China’s approach combines cautious diplomacy, strategic patience, and economic pragmatism to pursue long-term regional influence while avoiding direct political entanglement. The study highlights China’s dual objectives: securing its western borders from instability and integrating Afghanistan into broader regional connectivity networks linking Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. By analyzing China’s incremental investments in mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, the article demonstrates how Beijing uses economic instruments as tools of soft power and stability management. It also discusses the challenges hindering deeper cooperation, including Afghanistan’s fragile governance, internal security threats, and the lack of international recognition of the Taliban regime. The analysis reveals that while China’s engagement represents an opportunity for Afghanistan’s reconstruction and integration into regional trade routes, it also raises concerns about dependency, unequal partnerships, and the risk of exploitative resource extraction. Ultimately, the article argues that Afghanistan serves as a critical test case for the resilience and adaptability of China’s BRI in conflict-affected regions. The success or failure of this engagement will determine whether the BRI can function as a framework for inclusive development and peacebuilding or remain an instrument of strategic expansion serving China’s geopolitical interests.

Keywords: China-Afghanistan Relations, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Taliban Regime, Regional Connectivity, Economic Diplomacy, Strategic Engagement, Soft Power, Geopolitical Stability

Digital Peace: Social Media’s Role in Shaping Global Harmony and Conflict

Dr. Farhana Kousar — 2025-10-16

The ascendancy of social media as a global public square has created a profound paradox, positioning digital platforms as central yet ambivalent forces in shaping contemporary global affairs. This article investigates the dual role of social media in simultaneously fostering global harmony and exacerbating destructive conflict, a dynamic central to the emerging concept of "Digital Peace." Employing a qualitative mixed-methods approach including comparative case studies of the Rohingya crisis and the Türkiye-Syria earthquake response, documentary analysis of policy reports, and thematic analysis of scholarly literature this research delineates the specific mechanisms driving these opposing outcomes. The findings reveal that algorithmic architectures, designed for engagement maximization, systematically amplify misinformation, engineer polarization, and facilitate the mobilization of hate speech and extremist actors. Conversely, the study also documents social media’s capacity for effective crisis coordination, cross-cultural empathy-building, and the strategic deployment of peacebuilding counter-narratives. The discussion, framed through theoretical lenses of Social Identity Theory and the Social Shaping of Technology, argues that this duality is not inherent to the technology but is a direct consequence of its current economic model and a significant global governance gap. The article concludes by synthesizing these insights into a multi-stakeholder framework for achieving Digital Peace, proposing four critical pillars: enforceable platform accountability and algorithmic transparency; smart, human rights-based regulatory frameworks; comprehensive digital and media literacy education; and the strategic mobilization of civil society for digital peacebuilding. This study contends that the future of global harmony depends on our collective ability to consciously reshape the digital ecosystem to prioritize civic health and human dignity over unbridled engagement.

Keywords: Digital Peace, Social Media Conflict, Algorithmic Amplification, Platform Governance, Digital Literacy, Peacebuilding, Misinformation, Global Harmony

Strategic Exploration of Sustainable Socio-Economic Development Initiatives in Pakistan

Khalil Ahmad — 2025-10-16

This study investigates the strategic exploration of sustainable socio-economic development initiatives in Pakistan. In the contemporary world, socio-economic development is a multidimensional phenomenon encompassing not only economic growth but also social transformation, human capital development, equitable distribution of resources, and infrastructural advancement. These factors collectively contribute to modernization and national progress. Numerous nations—such as the United States, Canada, China, Germany, Brazil, Turkey, and the United Kingdom—have transitioned from underdeveloped to developed economies through the effective utilization of their physical geographic endowments to achieve sustainable socio-economic development. Pakistan, located in South Asia, possesses a diverse and strategically significant physical geography characterized by extensive glacial systems, towering mountain peaks including K–2 (8,611 meters, the world’s second-highest), plateaus, fertile Indus plains, deserts, salt ranges, and rich forested ecosystems. This geophysical diversity supports a wide range of natural resources essential for the development of green, blue, and industrial economies. The Indus Basin and its tributaries generate fertile alluvial soils that sustain Pakistan’s agrarian economy, while the nation’s distinct climatic zones nurture biodiversity and ecological resilience. As a littoral state, Pakistan also benefits from a 1,050-kilometer coastline along the Arabian Sea and a 350-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The presence of strategic maritime assets including Gwadar Port, Karachi and Port Qasim, fish harbors, industrial zones, and coastal ecosystems offers significant potential for expanding the maritime and blue economy. These assets position Pakistan as a vital economic corridor linking the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia through the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Despite consistent efforts since independence in 1947, Pakistan continues to face challenges related to rapid population growth, uneven development, and the need for modernization. The strategic exploration of its diverse physical and maritime resources, supported by technological innovation and sustainable policy frameworks, remains crucial for achieving long-term socio-economic stability and growth.

Keywords: Sustainable Development, Strategic Exploration, Blue Economy, Green Economy, Industrial Economy, Pakistan, Socio-Economic Initiatives

Development in Peril: Assessing Education Opportunities in Post-Conflict South Waziristan

Saad Ullah Shaheen — 2025-10-16

This study explores the complex dynamics surrounding educational opportunities in post-conflict South Waziristan, a region that has long grappled with instability, militarization, and socio-cultural constraints. The study examines key barriers affecting access to education in the area. Furthermore, the study also assesses the role of government, local community, NGOs, and international aid agencies in shaping educational outcomes in the area. The present study uses a mixed methodology research approach, and data was gathered using interview guides and questionnaires from respondents, including community people, government officials, and NGO workers. The study findings reveal that while some progress has been made in the education sector, particularly regarding schools’ infrastructure development, challenges still persist that restrict educational opportunities in the area. The study found various challenges, such as security checkpoints, curfews, economic hardship, gender-based differences, and inadequate communication infrastructure, are some of the major challenges people face. Cultural norms and limited mobility in post-conflict situations continue to disproportionately affect girls. Half of the respondents reported feeling unsafe attending schools, and a majority rated the education system as either ineffective or average after the conflict. The study findings show that despite the presence of various national education and development policies, gaps in implementation, lack of coordination between civil and military, and weak community ownership continue to undermine efforts toward inclusive and sustainable educational outcomes.

Keywords: Post-Conflict, Education, South Waziristan, Development Challenges

Aristotle’s Virtue Ethics and the Crisis of Ethical Leadership Today

Ahmad Qadeer — 2025-10-16

This paper examines virtue ethics of Aristotle to the modern day crisis of ethical leadership. It starts by examining the model presented by Aristotle on views of moral character and virtue, as well as the golden mean, and how all of them compose the building block of ethical action. The paper then relates all these classical concepts with what is expected of modern leaders in politics, business, and in the society at large. The comparison of the Aristotelian ideal of virtuous leader and the outcome of leaders who failed to succeed in their leadership will underline the importance of the character-based ethics in modern-day world. The paper concludes by citing that the only viable cure to the continued erosion in the credibility of the leadership is the reversion to a virtue-based ethical growth.

Keywords: Virtue Ethics, Aristotle, Ethical Leadership, Moral Character, Golden Mean

Gamified Learning: The Impact of E-Sports on Student Motivation and Academic Commitment

Sairh Jabeen — 2025-10-16

The rapid evolution of e-sports revolutionized the landscape of competitive gaming, attracting a vast audience and participants worldwide. This study explores the motivations behind students' engagement in e-sports, focusing on the social, entertainment, technological, financial, cognitive, and psychological factors. The research aimed to assess the perceptions of students regarding various motivational factors driving their participation in e-sports, along with examining gender-based differences in their motivations. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the study analyzed data from 515 students, with results indicating that students perceived that entertainment and fun, social interaction significantly contribute to students' involvement in e-sports. According to the findings, these elements not only operate as important engagement boosters but also show that e-sports is becoming more and more popular as a potential profession and a venue for personal growth. With implications for educational institutions, e-sports organizations, and legislators seeking to create a more welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for players, this study adds significant knowledge on the motives of students in the digital gaming space. In order to fully utilize e-sports' potential as an instrument for improving abilities and professional growth, the research also emphasizes how crucial it is to include them within educational and developmental frameworks.

Keywords: E-Sports, Students, Motivation, Online Gaming, Digital Arena

Building Relationship Resilience in an Age of Instant Gratification: The Crucial Role of Cognitive Empathy

Mehreen Bibi — 2025-10-16

Nowadays, in the age of instant gratification, human connection is challenged at unprecedented levels. The digital technologies and social networking platforms, as well as consumer-demand, have developed a culture of impatience, impulsivity, and reduced tolerance towards strained relationships. The paper examines the correlation among instant gratification, relationship resilience, and cognitive empathy using a mixed-method study that combines both quantitative data analysis and qualitative comments. The results show that there is a negative relationship between gratification-seeking behaviors and relationship endurance meaning that phubbing and compulsive digital engagement behaviors are detrimental to intimacy and trust and commitment. In its turn, cognitive empathy as the skill of the ability to put oneself into the position of another without necessarily having to share their emotions has been revealed as an important protective factor. Regression analysis indicates that empathy does not only have a positive effect on resilience but it also moderates the negative effects of gratification-based tendencies. In the qualitative themes, the translation of empathy into practical strategies across the relational contexts is also evident in that, in romantic partnerships, empathy leads to enhanced conflict resolution and patience; in families, empathy leads to intergenerational understanding; and in the workplace, empathy leads to the sustenance of collaboration in digitally mediated environment. Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Theory, and Social Exchange Theory are integrated to demonstrate how empathy can be used to connect emotional stability, cognitive reframing, and long-term relational investment. These observations indicate that developing cognitive empathy is critical in forming sturdy relational systems within a culture that is being flooded with the immediacy. The authors of the study conclude that through the integration of empathy into the communication process, relationships will withstand the effects of digital distraction and succeed in the complexity of modern life.

Keywords: Instant Gratification, Cognitive Empathy, Relationship Resilience, Digital Communication, Attachment Theory, Social Exchange, Conflict Resolution, Generational Dynamics

AI-Enhanced English Language Learning at the Undergraduate Level: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Effectiveness and Challenges

Maria Fatima Dogar — 2025-10-15

The global ascendancy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents a transformative potential for English Language Teaching (ELT), particularly in contexts grappling with systemic pedagogical challenges. This study investigates the integration of AI tools in undergraduate ELT in Pakistan, a setting characterized by large class sizes, traditional teaching methodologies, and significant resource constraints. Employing a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, the research collected quantitative data via surveys from 350 students and 45 instructors, and qualitative data through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and a quasi-experimental study on Automated Writing Evaluation (AWE) tools. The findings reveal a critical dissonance: while students demonstrated strong receptivity and AWE use led to a statistically significant improvement in writing performance, the adoption is severely hampered by a profound digital divide and inadequate technological infrastructure. Instructor perspectives, analyzed through the TPACK framework, indicated cautious optimism tempered by a significant lack of pedagogical training and confidence, underscoring a deficit in the necessary knowledge to integrate AI effectively. Further analysis using the UTAUT model identified unreliable internet, lack of institutional support, and ethical concerns as primary barriers to behavioral intention to use AI. The study concludes that the promise of AI in Pakistani ELT is contingent upon a systemic, multi-faceted approach that moves beyond mere tool provision. It necessitates concurrent investment in robust digital infrastructure, comprehensive teacher professional development focused on pedagogical integration, and the formulation of context-sensitive ethical guidelines to ensure AI acts as a bridge for educational equity rather than a further source of division.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), English Language Teaching (ELT), Pakistan, Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), Automated Writing Evaluation (AWE), Digital Divide

Syntactic Ambiguity in English: Cognitive Processing and Interpretation

Dr. Tabassum Javed — 2025-10-15

Syntactic ambiguity arises when a sentence can be parsed in more than one way due to its grammatical structure, leading to multiple possible interpretations. This phenomenon is a critical area of investigation within both theoretical linguistics and cognitive psychology, as it offers insight into how humans process language in real time. The present study explores the nature of syntactic ambiguity in English, focusing on how listeners and readers mentally represent and resolve structural ambiguities during language comprehension. Drawing on psycholinguistic research, including eye-tracking and reaction time studies, this paper examines the cognitive mechanisms employed to disambiguate syntactic structures, such as garden-path sentences and attachment ambiguities. The role of context, lexical cues, and working memory capacity in guiding syntactic parsing decisions is analyzed in depth. Furthermore, the study reviews competing models of sentence processing, such as the Garden Path Model and the Constraint-Based Lexicalist Model, evaluating their effectiveness in accounting for empirical findings. The paper also considers the implications of syntactic ambiguity for natural language processing (NLP) systems, highlighting challenges in machine parsing compared to human interpretation. Overall, the research underscores the complexity of syntactic processing and emphasizes the interplay between syntactic rules, cognitive strategies, and contextual influences. By advancing our understanding of how syntactic ambiguity is navigated, this work contributes to broader discussions in language acquisition, computational linguistics, and cognitive science.

Keywords: Syntactic Ambiguity, Sentence Processing, Garden-Path Sentences, Cognitive Linguistics, Parsing Strategies, Psycholinguistics, Ambiguity Resolution, Natural Language Processing, Attachment Ambiguity, Sentence Interpretation

The Impact of Emotional Intelligence, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress on Overall Performance of Football Players in Pakistan

Kainat Nadeem — 2025-10-15

Due to the mental strain that sports can cause, athletes are more susceptible to psychological problems including depression and burnout. It is believed that one of the key factors influencing whether these difficulties are lessened or made worse is emotional intelligence (EI), or the ability to confront and control emotions. In this study, an assortment of professional and amateur soccer players in Pakistan were used to examine the connections between EI, psychological health issues (such as stress, anxiety, and depression), and athlete performance. The study employed a cross-sectional research design, and comprised 105 professional and semi-professional football players in Pakistan who participated in the study. Convenient sampling was used for the collection of data via the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Emotional Intelligence (EI) scale (the Trait Meta-Mood Scale-TMMS), and Athlete Performance Questionnaire (ASQ). Analyses included Pearson’s correlation and regression. The study's results showed that psychological distress factors including depression, anxiety, and stress were highly and positively correlated with each other, confirming they often occur together. Importantly, these specific measures of distress were found to be only weakly related to Emotional Intelligence (EI). Conversely, EI demonstrated a moderate to strong association with athlete performance. Furthermore, a regression analysis established EI as a significant positive predictor of athlete performance, explaining 26% of its variance (R²=.26), where a one-unit increase in EI was associated with a 1.76-unit increase in performance (β =.51, p <.001). These findings underscore the importance of emotional intelligence as a key factor in enhancing football players' performance by mitigating the adverse effects of psychological distress.

Keywords. Emotional Intelligence, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Football Player Performance

Comparison of Public and Private Schools’ Early Childhood Education Quality in Context of Availability of Learning Facilities in Pakistan

Dr. Asif Ali Khan — 2025-10-14

In the context of the quality of ECE, there is a stress on how to ensure excellence in children learning outcomes by promoting various learning activities. The dropout rate is in public and private schools is increasing, parents are not satisfied about their children's schooling; therefore, parents pay less attention to their children, the population is increasing, and basic facilities for pre-schoolers’ are lacking. These are factors that need to be addressed for children's schooling. Therefore, there was a need to compare public and private schools ECE quality in context of availability of learning facilities in Bannu Division. The study was descriptive in nature. The population of the study was comprised of all public primary and private schools (n=3529) of Bannu Division (District Bannu, District Lakki Marwat and North Waziristan). The sample of the study was consisted of 360 schools. The researcher followed Gill et,al,(2010) as a Source for determination of sample size for the study. For the collection of data, the researcher personally developed Learning Environment Observation Checklist consisted of six statements. The research instrument was finalized after a process of pilot testing. The validity and the of reliability the tool were confirmed in light of the guidance of the experts. The data was entered in the SPSS 24. The reliability co-efficient Cronbach’s Alpha value was found 0.78 which was suitable to take a prudent start of the data collection on the tool. The researcher visited the sample school, sought permission from the school heads and observed the ECE classrooms. Keeping in view the observation of ECE, the researcher also asked certain questions stated in the LEOC and marked (ü) in the relevant columns. Throughout the data collection process the research ethics were fully observed. Mean and standard deviation as descriptive statistics as well as independent sample t-test were used as inferential statistics. Finding showed that both public and private schools children were facilitated, with age appropriate big and small colourful books to promote the reading habits. Similarly, it was viewed by both public and private schools that Children were provided opportunities for observation and experimentation in order to understand the world around them but home related activities in both public and private schools were not at all practised by children. Public and private schools were observed that Teachers have “very little” provided children with opportunities for creative expression in form of some art work although public schools were better at all.

Keywords: Quality of Early Childhood Education, Learning Facilities, Public and Private School, Bannu Division

Frederic Henry as a Modernist Hero in A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway

Iqra Khan — 2025-10-14

Heroism in literature has traditionally been linked with courage, sacrifice, and moral certainty. The modernist period, however, redefined this concept by emphasizing alienation, dislocation, and survival over triumph. Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms reflects this transformation, particularly in the portrayal of Frederic Henry in Book I. The paper investigates Frederic Henry’s characterization through Malcolm Bradbury’s (1976) Modernist Hero Archetype, which identifies six defining features of the modernist protagonist: alienation, existential disillusionment, fragmented consciousness, cosmopolitan existence, anti-heroic endurance, and aesthetic individualism. A qualitative textual analysis of selected passages demonstrates that Frederic Henry, though detached from traditional ideals, embodies these traits. The study concludes that Frederic Henry represents a distinctly modernist hero whose significance lies in endurance and authenticity rather than conquest. This reading highlights Hemingway’s contribution to reshaping the literary idea of the protagonist in the twentieth century.

Keywords: Modernism, A Farewell to Arms, Frederic Henry, Bradbury, Modernist Hero

Relationship Between Teachers’ Self- Efficacy and Teachers’ Emotions at Secondary Level

Saira Farooq Shah — 2025-10-13

This study explores the relationship between self-efficacy of teachers and their emotional states in secondary schools in Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K). Using a quantitative approach, the research examines how teachers’ belief in their ability to perform job-related tasks influences emotional experiences such as stress, enthusiasm, and burnout. Data collected from secondary school teachers using validated instruments revealed a positive correlation between high self-efficacy and positive emotional outcomes, including increased enthusiasm and reduced levels of stress and burnout which is also statistically significant. Conversely, low self-efficacy was associated with greater emotional distress and job dissatisfaction. The study concludes that improving teacher self-efficacy is crucial for fostering emotional well-being and enhancing overall job performance.

Keywords: Teacher Self-Efficacy, Emotional States, Stress, Burnout, Enthusiasm, Professional Development, Supportive Environment, Secondary Schools, Mirpur, AJ&K

Gender Stereotypes and Career Aspirations: How Social Expectations Shape Women’s Professional Goals

Henozia Khan — 2025-10-12

Gender stereotypes play a significant role in shaping women’s professional goals and career trajectories. This paper explores how social expectations, cultural beliefs, and traditional gender norms influence women’s career aspirations and their perceptions of success. Using a mixed-method design, the study examines the extent to which family expectations, media portrayals, and societal pressures contribute to occupational segregation and underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. Findings reveal that internalized gender norms often restrict women’s career ambitions and lead to self-limiting choices. The paper concludes that challenging social stereotypes and promoting inclusive educational and professional environments are essential to support women’s empowerment and equal career opportunities.

Keywords: Gender Stereotypes, Career Aspirations, Women Empowerment, Social Expectations, Occupational Segregation, Gender Norms

Comparative Study of Mediation Models Eastern vs. Western Approaches to Conflict Resolution

Hafiz Haseeb Ullah — 2025-10-12

Mediation has become a central approach of conflict resolution in a wide variety of cultures and legal systems. The paper discusses the characteristics that describe the comparative aspects of Eastern and Western mediation models, including how culture, social and legal elements interfere in defining the practice of mediation. Whereas Western models regard formal processes, personal rights and neutral facilitation, the eastern models lay more emphasis in the relationship harmony, community engagement and moral persuasion. Based on a qualitative comparative analysis, using case studies, academic literature and mediation manuals, the study reveals the strengths and limitations of each of the models. The study also examines the relevance of cross-cultural and international mediation in cross-cultural and international conflicts. The results highlight the role of cultural awareness in mediators and the possibilities that may be explored to adapt the best practices in each tradition to make mediation more effective and legitimate in the international setting.

Keywords: Mediation, Conflict Resolution, Eastern vs. Western Models, Cultural Context, Harmony and Individualism, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Cross-Cultural Negotiation, Comparative Legal Analysis

The Principles of Ta'zir and Hudud in Hanafi Jurisprudence: A Comparative Study in the Context of Contemporary Legal Thought

Dr. Zeeshan — 2025-10-11

This paper, The Principles of Ta 2 zir and Hudud in Hanafi Jurisprudence: A Comparative Study in the Context of Contemporary Legal Thought, represents a detailed study of the criminal law in the Hanafi jurisprudence, its theoretical basis, rules of evidence, and its compatibility with the modern criminal justice systems. The study explains that Hanafi fiqh takes a fine line between justice, mercy and welfare of the people (ʿadl 10, raḥmah 11, and maṣlaḥah 12), to deliver justice without infringing human dignity. The paper will start with a definition and distinction between hudud (fixed) and taʿzir (discretionary) and will underscore the fact that hudud are those penalties that are divinely sanctioned and their evidentiary presentation is to be followed without compromise, and that taʿzir will be a form of punishments that the judiciary will have flexibility in addressing the changing needs of the society. It expounds the ‘maxim al-Hudud tadrak bi-l-shubuhat (doubts prevent the application of hudud) as an exercise of the Hanafi focus on care, justice and safeguarding of the innocent. The paper applies a comparative approach and compares the Hanafi jurisprudence with the contemporary secular legal systems. Though the deterrence and rehabilitative approach is prevalent in modern law, the moral correction and spiritual reformation is incorporated in the Hanafi law. It highlights the discretion of the qadji (judge), whose judgment in taqzire cases is determined by the rules of siyasah sharafiyah (Islamic government) so that justice and reform over punishment are met. The study also examines the application of Hanafi principles like qiyas (analogy), istihsan (juridical preference) and urchuf (custom) to facilitate flexibility in dealing with modern day crimes such as corruption, computer crimes and environmental crimes. It claims that the Hanafi system fits the contemporary human rights norms by insisting on procedural fairness, rigidity of evidence, and guard against wrongful punishment. Finally, the paper affirms that the Hanafi penal code is corrective and not punitive. It is founded upon mercy, justice, as well as social order with the goal of rehabilitating the offenders and protecting the welfare of the population. By incorporating Hanafi into modern-day legal practice, the moral and ethical aspects of criminal justice will also be enriched by a reassertion of the perennial applicability and common-sense of the Islamic jurisprudence in the creation of a just and humane society.

Keywords: Hanafi jurisprudence, Hudud,Taʿzir, Islamic criminal law, Siyāsah Sharʿiyyah, Human rights, Contemporary legal thought

A Memetic Analysis of Supernatural Machinery in Fantasy Epic Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism

Sadia Mehmood — 2025-10-10

This research paper will explore mythical creatures in the fantasy epic the Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism widely accepted translation of Pakistani writer Musharraf Ali Farooqi in 2009 by applying the Theory of Memetics on the mythical creatures such as tricksters and Sorcerers. Memetics is the theory applied to text analysis. In his 1967 book The Selfish Gene, Richard Dawkins created the term “meme” to refer to a unit that might be used to measure the pace at which ideas spread from generation to generation. This research will explain the portrayal of fairy giants, trickster and Sorcerers in Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism are merely fantastical elements but also serve as carriers of cultural and social memes. Sorcerers often embody themes of magic, and moral guidance, while giants typically represent strength, power, and sometimes moral ambiguity. By analyzing these creatures through a memetic lens, we can identify the specific cultural narratives and societal values they transmit. Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism were part of the Adventures of Amir Hamza storyline, which originated at the Mughal Emperor's court in India. The subcontinent saw a rise in the popularity of Dastan e Amir Hamza. Incidentally, this fantasy epic is basically “battle between Sorcerers and Tricksters” (Farooqi, 2009).

Keywords: Memetic Analysis, Supernatural Machinery, Fantasy Literature, Hoshruba, Tilism (Magical World)

Political Culture and the Dynamics of Populist Policy-Making: A South Asian Perspective

Zahid Ullah Khan — 2025-10-10

The resurgence of populist politics in South Asia reflects deep-seated transformations in political culture, governance, and citizen-state relations. This study explores how distinctive cultural and historical patterns of political behavior have shaped the rise and policy orientations of populist leaders in the region, focusing on cases such as Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The research argues that populist policymaking in South Asia is not merely an outcome of global anti-elite sentiment but is deeply rooted in local traditions of charismatic authority, patron-client networks, and religious or nationalist symbolism. By integrating theories of political culture and populism, the study identifies how leaders such as Imran Khan, Narendra Modi, and Sheikh Hasina have leveraged cultural narratives of authenticity and moral renewal to consolidate power while weakening institutional checks and balances. The paper employs a qualitative and comparative approach, relying on secondary data from journal articles, policy documents, and historical sources. Findings suggest that populist governance in South Asia thrives where participatory political culture coexists with weak institutionalization, allowing leaders to frame themselves as the moral voice of the people. However, such dynamics also constrain democratic consolidation and policy coherence. The study contributes to the broader debate on how political culture mediates the global spread of populism and offers insights into developing context-sensitive governance reforms in South Asia’s volatile democracies.

Keywords: Political Culture, Populism, South Asia, Democratic Governance, Political Leadership, Institutional Erosion

Pedagogical Scaffolds and Material Tectonics: A Strategic Framework for Enhancing the B.Arch. Curriculum

Ar. Muhammad Zeeshan Zaheer — 2025-10-10

This paper proposes a pedagogical model for the existing 5-year B.Arch. programs that prepares students to navigate tensions between Global South material realities (bricks, bamboo, cement) and high-tech advancements (robotics, AI, IoT). Through a critical analysis of curriculum gaps at selected universities, we identify how conventional pedagogies fail to train students as "material diplomats", designers fluent in both vernacular tectonics and computational intelligence. We present a five-year scaffolded curriculum integrating maker-labs, decolonial tech modules, and industry partnerships. This model shows how students can transform challenges (e.g., unreliable grids, scarce robotics) into opportunities for innovation (e.g., Arduino-enabled bamboo sensors, optimized brick reuse systems). The paper argues that architectural education must prioritize contextual technacy over technological mimicry to foster graduates who ethically negotiate high-tech disruptions while advancing self-healing, community-centered architectures.

Keywords: Architectural Pedagogy, Architectural Bachelors, Analogue Computation, Vernacular Materials, Contextual Technacy, Digital Ethics in Technology

Strategic Pacts in a Shifting World Order: The Pakistan–Saudi Defense Pact 2025

Dr. Wajid Ali — 2025-10-10

This era marked by fluctuating geopolitical dynamics and growing security designs, the 2025 Pakistan Saudi Defense Pact represents a significant repositioning in regional and global strategic alliances. Israeli airstrikes on Doha and the subsequent exposure of vulnerabilities in Gulf air defense systems, this agreement highlights a growing desire among Middle Eastern powers to expand their security partnerships beyond traditional Western contexts, particularly the United States. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement in Riyadh by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, signals a deepening of military and political ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The pact encourages that any act of aggression against either nation shall be regarded as an act of aggression against both. By putting this agreement within larger geopolitical shifts and applying Neorealist and Regional Security Complex theories, the study assesses the motivations, possible risks, and implications for both bilateral ties and the larger strategic calculus in the Middle East and South Asia. Eventually, the paper contends that the pact is not just a defense agreement but an indication of a new regional security planning, less dependent on the West and more agreed to localized strategic requirements.

Keywords. Strategic, Pact, Pakistan–Saudi, US, Middle East, Reliance

Asymmetric Effect of Public Debt on Inflation in Pakistan: A Time Series Analysis

Maryam Munawar — 2025-10-09

The present study has assessed the influence of public debt on yearly CPI inflation in Pakistan over the period 1983-2024, employing the NARDL approach of cointegration and error correction model. The model incorporates control factors such as money supply, real per capita growth, and trade openness. The research has also examined the asymmetric relationship between state debt and inflation in Pakistan. Both in the long term and short term, an increase in the public debt to GDP ratio has a positive and significant impact on inflation, while a drop in the public debt to GDP ratio is minimal. The results demonstrated evidence of an asymmetric influence in both the long term and the overall regression. Pakistan's debt-to-GDP ratio significantly exceeds the threshold for developing nations, resulting in almost two-thirds of tax revenue being allocated to debt servicing, so severely undermining macroeconomic stability in the country. The inflationary nature of rising debt necessitates that borrowing in Pakistan be restricted to economic purposes, hence avoiding superfluous fiscal expansion.

Keywords: Public Debt, CPI Inflation, Asymmetric, NARDL

Religion and Politics: A Conundrum of Identity Formation and Political Movements in Malakand, Pakistan

Muhammad Riaz — 2025-10-09

This paper examines the dynamics of religious identity, exclusivism, and violence, and their impact on socio-political transformations in the Malakand Division of Pakistan. The people of Pakistan—particularly those in Malakand—demonstrate a deep emotional attachment to religion, which is often exploited by extremist groups in the region. The intersection of religion and politics here is both intricate and far-reaching, exerting a profound influence on the Pakistani state and society. This study is grounded in field research and relies on primary data collected through interviews, focus group discussions with diverse social groups as well as an analysis of friday sermons (Khutbah) in mosques in the research area. The thematic findings are generated by using the theoretical framework of Mary Douglas’ Enclave Theory. The findings suggest that rigid religious ideologies, intra-faith doctrinal differences, contested dogmatic narratives propagated by radicals at the societal level, and the emergence of counter-narratives promoting peaceful coexistence, compassion, and pluralism, all shape the socio-political landscape of Malakand. The religious rhetorics generated within the tribal social order were made more complex by state interventions. The post-colonial state structure has influenced local level power alliances in an attempt to transform the social order from informal tribal led governance to more formal state led one. The study argues that faith-based divisions and the polemics employed by religious scholars has impacted traditional cultural and religious identity and significantly contributed to provocation and violence in the region, which is apparently associated with Pashtun culture.

Keywords: religious identity, exclusivism, violence, socio-political transformation, narrative, world view

Insanity Defense in Criminal Law in Norway

Ali Ajmal — 2025-10-07

The objective of this study is to analyze the law governing the defense of insanity in Norway. The doctrinal legal analysis research method was used to study the law on the defense of insanity in Norway. Norway recognizes the defense of insanity in section 20 of the Penal Code of Norway (2005). Norway follows the medical model of insanity defense, which requires no proof of a causal link between the abnormal mental condition of an offender and the crime committed for the establishment of legal insanity of an offender; rather, the defense of insanity in Norway is based on the presence of the mental disorder in the offender. To determine the legal insanity of an offender, the mental health evaluation by the mental health professionals is mandatory in Norway, but ultimately it is at the discretion of the courts to decide on the legal insanity of an offender. This study has implications for legislatures and legal and mental health professionals in Norway.

Keyword: Crime, Insanity, Legal, Mental, Norway

Damaged Human Psyche and Consequent Criminal Tendency: A Marxian Eco critical Analysis of Mohsin Hamid’s Moth Smoke

Muhammad Arif — 2025-10-07

This article makes an Eco critical study of the novel Moth Smoke by Mohsin Hamid with a Marxist perspective. It attempts to present how the polluted environment damages human psyche and how class distinction gives way to different social crimes. The novel sets a parallel between infected environment and infected human conditions as resulted from the economic gulf that separates the upper class from the rest of the society. The theoretical framework which has been employed is Marxist Ecocritical study. The study elaborates that how class distinction and the pernicious effect of the pollution become the causes of Darashikoh’s (the hero) moral and economic downfall in the novel. Thus, the basic objective of this paper is to find out that how a polluted environment leads to the pollution of the human psyche and consequently to a criminal tendency.

Keywords: Marxism, Ecocriticism, Class Division, Environmental Pollution, Human Psyche, Morality, Devastation

Digital Surveillance and Political Expression: Analyzing the Effects of State Monitoring of Influencers and Public Figures on Online Political Discourse in Pakistan

Noor Ul Ain Nasir — 2025-10-07

Digital media in Pakistan have been growing at a very fast pace, and it has revolutionized political communication so that people who influence, and those who are influential in politics can have direct communication with the citizens and also be able to control the political discourse. But this democratization of discourse has come more and more to fall under the shadow of the state surveillance. This report looks at how digital surveillance has impacted political speech among the Pakistani influencers and publicity. Based on a qualitative and interpretive study design, the data were gathered in the form of semi-structured interviews with 18 respondents, who were journalists, digital activists, and media figures. Using thematic analysis, we found five prevalent themes, which were the perceived ubiquity of surveillance, fear and self-censorship, strategic response via coded communication, digital disillusionment, and reclaiming agency via covert resistance. Evidence indicates that surveillance gives rise to a paradoxical process, as on the one hand it inhibits free expression as a result of fear and intimidation, but, on the other hand, surveillance leads to imaginative, oblique forms of dissent and the re-invention of civic life. Influencers will use selective silence, humor, and symbolic language to negotiate visibility in order to find a balance between influence and personal security. The paper ends by concluding that the surveillance of Pakistani citizens by the state has transformed the politics of the internet to give rise to a space of restrained expression and defensive communication and not blunt repression. These insights form part of the larger debates on digital authoritarianism and freedom of expression by hybrid democracies. The study highlights the importance of open digital governance, enhanced privacy and renewed focus on democratic communication ethics in the changing digital Pakistan.

Keywords: Online Censorship, Political Expression, Influencers, Pakistan, Online Discourse, Self-Censorship, Hybrid Regimes.

China’s Policy Towards Afghanistan in the Aftermath of the U.S. Withdrawal

Sadia Iqbal — 2025-10-07

This paper investigates China’s expanded involvement in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of the United States and NATO forces in 2021. The U.S. withdrawal profoundly changed the regional security landscape, providing China with an opportunity to enhance its strategic and economic engagement with Afghanistan. This research explores how China’s economic, security, and strategic engagement in Afghanistan enhances its regional clout, especially regarding counterterrorism initiatives, infrastructure development, and regional connectivity. It also discusses the difficulties China faces in negotiating Afghanistan’s complicated political environment, including the instability brought on by the Taliban's rule and the involvement of other regional and international actors. Using the theoretical framework of geoeconomics and geopolitics, this study analyzes the evolving relationship between China and Afghanistan from a broader contextual perspective. Through the study of key primary documents and qualitative interviews with the policymakers and scholars, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the changing dynamics of China-Afghanistan interactions.

Keywords: Geo-Economics, Geopolitics, BRI, China-Afghanistan Relations.

Reforming the Death Penalty Constitutional, Human Rights, and Policy Dimensions

Rana Muhammad Shahid Naseem — 2025-10-07

The death penalty has always been one of the most debatable topics within the context of the current law, politics, and human rights. Although over two-thirds of the states in the world have legally or in practice abolished it, some retentionist jurisdictions still defend capital punishment on deterrence, retribution and public safety grounds. This point of departure represents complicated crossings of constitutional power, global human rights duties and domestic policy agendas.

This paper offers a critical analysis of the death penalty based on the three interconnected aspects of the death penalty, which include the constitutional, human rights and policy aspects. It starts by examining constitutional controversies, like in the tension between the right to life and state sovereignty, judicial interpretation in a variety of legal systems, and the use of developing constitutional principles, such as proportionality and dignity. It then discusses the human rights issues that a death penalty presents, considering the international and regional instruments, the jurisprudence of human rights courts and the arguments on whether the death penalty violates the jus cogens norms of international law. Another policy issue discussed in the paper would be the dilemma of deterrence, false conviction, cost, and the feasibility of other alternatives like life imprisonment and restorative justice.

By comparatively analyzing the reforms in both the abolitionist and retentionist states, the study recognizes the world trends and lessons that the jurisdictions struggling with the capital punishment should learn. Finally, it contends that reform must be meaningful and must therefore entail balancing the constitutional protection, conforming to international human rights norms and embracing practical policy innovations. The paper has concluded that the way forward does not only lie in a legal reform but also in a reconciliation of justice, human dignity and the developing moral consciousness of societies.

Keywords: Death Penalty Reform, Constitutional Law, Human Rights, Criminal Justice Policy, Capital Punishment Debate

Economic Analysis of Tomato in Taluka Hyderabad, Sindh

Adil Baig — 2025-10-06

This study investigated the economic analysis of tomato production in Taluka Hyderabad, Sindh, focusing on the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, cost structures, labor dynamics, production expenses, market-related costs, and overall profitability. Primary data were collected through surveys and interviews with tomato growers, and a detailed cost-benefit analysis was conducted to assess the economic viability of tomato cultivation in the region. The findings revealed that tomato prices fluctuated seasonally, dropping during peak harvest months (May–June) and increasing during off-season shortages (e.g., November). Farmers in the study area were typically middle-aged with modest educational backgrounds and managed small-scale farms averaging 7.8 acres. Despite the relatively recent adoption of tomato farming, averaging just three years of experience, the activity proved to be economically promising. The total production cost per acre was calculated at PKR 117,380, while gross returns averaged PKR 378,000, resulting in a substantial net profit of PKR 260,620. The input-output ratio of 1:3.22 and a benefit-cost ratio of 1:2.22 underscored the strong profitability and efficient resource use in tomato cultivation. The study recommended enhanced market access, technical training, subsidies, and research investments to support and expand profitable tomato production in the region.

Keywords: Economic Analysis, Tomato Production, Taluka Hyderabad, Sindh, Socio-Economic Characteristics of Farmers, Cost Structures, Labor Dynamics, Production Expenses, Market-Related Costs.

Exploring the Role of Technologies in Building Organizational Resilience towards Organizational Stability: A Case of Kazakhstan

Gahwar Bhatti — 2025-10-06

In the rapid technological developing world business and organizations must create robust strategies to adapt and withstand new disruptions. This study investigates the role of technologies in enhancing organizational resilience, eventually leading to organizational stability. The study employs qualitative research design by applying Gioia methodology to analyze semi-structured interviews with organizational leaders across various industries. Five principal types of disruption were discovered: geopolitical instability, pandemics, cybersecurity threats, natural disasters, and economic or trade disruptions. The results of the study reveal how organizations perceive and cope with such crises and illustrate the role of technological solutions in adaptation and recovery. The main contribution of this study is the development of a process model that clearly shows how organizations respond to certain disruptions with technology to get organizational stability. The data obtained represent both a theoretical contribution to research on sustainability and digital transformation, as well as a practical guide for managers interested in creating resilient and flexible organizations.

Keywords: Organizational Resilience, Technology, Digital Technologies, Organizational Stability, Disruption.

Impact of Digital Technologies Enhancing Transparency and Reducing Corruption in Government Institutions

Dr. Muneer Ahmed Shah — 2025-10-06

The digital transformation of government services has emerged as powerful tool in enhancing transparency and curbing corruption across Public institutions. This research investigates that new technologies curbing the corruption and drove transparency in government sector Pakistan especially in Sindh. This study focuses on the new technology PIFRA adopted in treasure department khairpur district. Multifaceted impact of digital technologies such as E-Governance platforms, systems, on improving accountability and minimizing opportunity for corrupt practice within government sector to information government can reduce discretionary powers of officials, stream services delivery, and foster a culture of openness. This study uses a quantitative method approach, quantitative data analyses from global indices such as corrupt practices index. This research based on hundred four respondents the employees of government institution treasury Khairpur, among the all hundred four respondents hundred four questions were distributed and the data was analyzed using SPSS, the findings show that there are positive and correlation between digital technologies with transparency and digital technologies with reducing corruption and corruption between transparency. The recommendations offer government seeking to leverage digital technologies and strategic avenue for good governance transparency and public trust and for any scholar to there is still need of research in this why government not ready to adopt new technologies.

Keywords: Digital Transformation – DT, Enhancing Transparency – ET, Reducing Corruption – RC, Project to Improve Financial Reporting and Auditing - PIFRA

Role of Demographic Factors in Predicting Psychological Adjustment among Adults

Iram Naz (Corresponding author) — 2025-10-06

The purpose of the study was to investigate how demographic characteristics can predict adults' psychological adjustment. Data was gathered using a cross-sectional research methodology. The data for the 300 adult participants came from 300 individuals in Jhelum and Gujarat. Convenient sampling, or a non-probability sampling strategy, was used to choose the sample. Participants' ages were asked on the demographic sheet, while Naz, Bano, and Leghari's Scale of Adjustment for Adults was used to assess psychological adjustment. The results of neural network in the study showed that adult psychological adjustment was influenced by demographic factors because there was little disparities found between the relative errors of training and testing. If there was a smaller difference between the relative errors of training and testing it indicates a stronger predictive connection between the variables. The neural network model has also emphasized the importance of forecasting demographic factors for psychological adjustment in adults. The findings showed that marital status was the most significant predictor of psychological adjustment, followed by education, birth order, father's education, rural–urban area and age. Marital status had a stronger effect on psychological adjustment. It was determined that the most significant predictor of psychological adjustment was marital status. Adults' psychological adjustment is influenced by a number of factors, including age, father's educational background, birth order, rural versus urban location, and subsequent education.

Keywords: Demographic Factors, Adult, Cross sectional study, Psychological Adjustment, Neural Network

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Social Media in Shaping the Perception of the Public on National Security Matters in Pakistan: A Securitization Theory Perspective

Adnan Saghir — 2025-10-05

Social media has evolved a lot and at the same time, it offers an opportunity to make statements on strategic communication platforms to reach billions of people within the shortest time. This study aims to determine the role of social media in constructing people’s perceptions of national security issues in Pakistan based on securitization theory. Securitization theory provides a way of analyzing how political issues are put in a category of existential threats by discourses that require exceptional measures. This paper highlights the importance of social media as a securitizing actor to produce and circulate narratives that inform the opinion of the public and policymakers. Social media plays an important role in the securitization process proved by examination of the framing techniques, audience acceptance as well as the media-state interaction. Social media also has issues related to the presence of misleading information and its consequences for national security policy. Future perspectives focus on the opportunities provided by the development of superior technologies like artificial intelligence and predictive analytics for improved analysis of securitization processes on social media. There is a need to establish better communication, media control, and public participation in constructing positive security discourses.

Keywords: Public Perception, Securitization Theory, Social Media, National Security

Capital Structure Decisions: Balancing Debt and Equity in the Pakistan Corporate Sector

Aqeel Ahmad — 2025-10-05

This study empirically investigates the determinants of capital structure and the applicability of theoretical frameworks for non-financial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). Against a backdrop of macroeconomic volatility, high inflation, and a developing capital market, understanding how Pakistani firms balance debt and equity is crucial for corporate governance, investment, and policy. Utilizing a quantitative research design, a stratified random sample of 100 firms from five key sectors (Cement, Energy, Chemical, Automobile, and Textile) was analyzed over a ten-year period (2014-2023) using panel data regression techniques. The findings reveal a significant negative relationship between profitability and leverage, indicating that more profitable firms prefer internal financing, a core tenet of the Pecking Order Theory. Conversely, asset tangibility and firm size showed a positive and significant relationship with debt usage. The study also identified substantial sectoral disparities in leverage ratios. The results challenge the pure Trade-Off Theory, suggesting that the Pecking Order Theory provides a more descriptively accurate model of firm behavior in Pakistan’s unique economic context. The research offers practical implications for managers to prioritize internal funds and strategic debt usage, for investors to contextually interpret leverage ratios, and for policymakers to deepen capital markets and enhance stability to support robust corporate financing.

Keywords: Capital Structure, Trade-Off Theory, Pecking Order Theory, Leverage, Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), Corporate Finance, Firm-Specific Determinants

Female Suffering in Khalid Hosseini’s Novel: A Thousand Splendid Suns

Nazia Ujan — 2025-10-05

Khalid Hosseini is an afghan writer. He wrote a novel “a thousand splendid suns” in (2007). The novel is the masterpiece and the best replicate of the suffering of females in Afghanistan that vividly depicts the sufferings of females. He explores every aspects of the suffering in his novel. Sometimes, women suffer in different role of being mother, daughter, sister and wife. Females give their full potential but don’t get their rewards. They only bear and suffer in the male dominant society. Focusing on the themes of sufferings, this study found that those sufferings do not occur intentionally. It happens when a female does not meet her goals, which include physical and mental. However, it affects deeply, destroying the inner feelings of a person. It also brings mental destruction, which changes into anger, depression and anxiety, which result in sufferings.

Keywords: Novel, Female, Sufferings, Mental Problems

Climate-Related Crimes: Conceptualizing Ecocide in International and Domestic Criminal Law

Dr. Faiz Bakhsh — 2025-10-05

Climate-based crimes are becoming one of the most critical challenges that are threatening human survival and world security. Although the scope of environmental law has conventionally been regulation and compliance, the magnitude of the ecological destruction that climatic changes have brought about has led to the emergence of the concept of ecocide as a possible international crime. The paper will discuss the conceptual basis, law evolution and domestic measures of ecocide, in the context of international and national criminal law. It explores the new controversies of including ecocide in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), as well as domestic legal advances in places like France, Ukraine, and the European Union. Moreover, it considers the place of ecocide in enhancing environmental human rights, especially the right to a healthy environment. The analysis ends by suggesting reforms in codification and enforcement, and critically analyzes the problems of sovereignty, enforcement and definitional sharpness.

Keywords: Ecocide; Climate Change; International Criminal Law; Environmental Crimes; Human Rights; Rome Statute; Pakistan

Arbitration and Constitutional Justice in Pakistan: Reconciling Party Autonomy with Fundamental Rights

Khizar Hayat — 2025-10-05

The ascendancy of arbitration as the preferred mechanism for commercial dispute resolution, championed for its efficiency and the principle of party autonomy, has engendered a complex legal confrontation with the foundational tenets of constitutional justice in Pakistan. This article argues that the relationship between arbitration, governed by the pro-enforcement Recognition and Enforcement (Arbitration Agreement and Foreign Arbitral Awards) Act, 2011, and the enforcement of fundamental rights under the Constitution of 1973, is not one of hierarchy but of a necessary and evolving symbiosis. The analysis identifies the precise crucibles of this conflict: arbitration involving State-Owned Enterprises and public funds, the non-waivability of fundamental rights, procedural fairness under Article 10A, and the tension between confidentiality and the public's right to information. The article critically examines the Pakistani judiciary's jurisprudential tightrope, navigating between a trend of deference to arbitral finality in private disputes and an interventionist trend, via Article 184(3) and an expansive "public policy" doctrine, in matters of significant public interest. Ultimately, the article proposes a calibrated "spectrum of scrutiny" model as a pathway to reconciliation, where the level of judicial intervention is context-dependent. It concludes that for arbitration to thrive as a credible institution, it must operate within the constitutional shadow, requiring disciplined judicial focus on procedural integrity, legislative clarity, and a heightened sense of duty from arbitrators to uphold mandatory law, thereby balancing private commercial efficacy with the state's inviolable duty to protect constitutional norms and public trust.

Keywords: Arbitration, Constitutional Justice, Party Autonomy, Fundamental Rights, Public Policy, Pakistan, Judicial Intervention, State-Owned Enterprises

Relationship between Students’ Emotional Intelligence and Their Academic Resilience at University Level

Dr Fahd Naveed Kausar — 2025-10-04

Students’ emotional intelligence and their academic resilience are closely linked, as emotionally intelligent students are better able to regulate emotions, cope with stress, and maintain motivation in the face of challenges. This connection enables them to persist in their academic pursuits, adapt to difficulties, and achieve sustained success in higher education. The objective of the study was to find the level of Students’ Emotional Intelligence and Their Academic Resilience and to examine the effect and association between students’ emotional intelligence and academic resilience at University Level. The present study employed a descriptive research design, situated within the positivist paradigm of quantitative inquiry. The population of interest consisted of all public and private universities in the Lahore district. A multistage sampling technique was used to select participants. The data collection instruments consisted of two questionnaires. To ensure the validity of the instruments, expert reviews were obtained, while reliability was established through pilot testing. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Both descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (regression analysis and Pearson’s correlation coefficient) were employed to address the research objectives. The findings of the study revealed that there was highly significant effect and relationship between students’ emotional intelligence and academic resilience at University Level. It is recommended that universities should integrate structured emotional intelligence (EI) development programs, focusing on self-awareness, self-regulation, and motivation to strengthen students’ resilience.

Keywords: Students’ Emotional Intelligence, Academic Resilience, University Level

Techno Economics Analysis of Industrial Scale Chicken Bone by-products: A Case Study Evidence in Pakistan

Abdullah Irshad — 2025-10-04

The research studied the chicken bone by-product case evidence from Pakistan. I have solved the environmental problem by getting calcium, phosphate, and phosphorus from chicken bones and have also produced pet food, fertilizer, and chalk. I have taken primary (marriage halls and questionnaires) and secondary data (FAO reports, Pakistan poultry association). The methodology used in this study was Technoeconomic Analysis (TE) and calculated costs such as grinder costs, building costs, equipment costs, etc. The model used in this study is SWOT. The conclusion is that it was beneficial for developing countries because the cost of collecting bone was low, the revenue from chicken power was high, and it also generated employment and increased economic growth (GDP).

Keywords: Techno Economics, Industrial Scale, Chicken Bone, By-products, Pakistan.

The Double-Edged Sword: Artificial Intelligence, Electoral Integrity, and the Future of Democracy in Pakistan

Nimra Javaid — 2025-10-04

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the electoral arena is a paradigm shift to the global democracies with a paradigmatic duoism. This two-sided sword in this article by the author is the case of a weak democratic culture in the country of Pakistan with certain weaknesses, including political polarization, poor digital literacy rates, and election fraud. A qualitative case study design is employed in the present study to evaluate the dual aspects of AI as the source of the transformative opportunities in the form of how to make the processes of electoral administration and voter participation better and as the threat to existentialism in the form of weaponized disinformation, manipulation of micro-targets, and algorithmic bias. It is based on the combination of theoretical frameworks of the Democratic Theory and the Social Shaping of Technology which claim that the influence of AI is not predetermined but formed by the agency of institutions. The article appraises critically the nascent policy and legal framework in Pakistan, such as the National AI Policy (2025), Election Act (2017), and PECA (2016) and shows that these rules and legislations have major gaps in regulation and lack an institutional capacity within the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). The lessons learnt during comparative analysis of the regulatory vacuum in India, the proactive governance of the European Union, and the rather disjointed approach of the United States can be considered to be crucial. The results also indicate that AI has already started undermining the electoral integrity and trust in Pakistan as the 2024 election in the country has been marked by a completely unregulated use of AI to spread misinformation, deepfakes, and targeted suppression campaigns. The paper concludes that Pakistan is at a cross-road and that multi-stakeholder intervention is much needed. It offers practical suggestions, such as AI guidelines suggested by ECP, legislative changes to protect data and criminalise malicious deepfakes, and a voluntary code of practice among political parties to exploit the democratic benefits of AI and resolve unequivocally the dangers it poses.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Electoral Integrity, Pakistan, Democracy, Disinformation, Micro-targeting, Election Commission of Pakistan, Regulatory Framework

China-India Strategic Competition and the Fragmentation of Asian Regionalism

Dr. Muhammad Naveed Ul Hasan Shah — 2025-10-03

The evolving strategic rivalry between China and India has emerged as one of the most consequential dynamics shaping the future of Asian regionalism. Since the 1962 border war, their competition has transcended traditional security concerns, encompassing economic influence, infrastructure development, normative leadership, and institutional engagement. This article investigates how the China–India strategic competition has contributed to the fragmentation of Asian regionalism from the Cold War period to the contemporary Indo-Pacific era. Using a qualitative and historical-analytical approach, the study integrates primary sources, policy documents, and secondary literature to assess the patterns and consequences of their rivalry. It argues that the Sino-Indian competition has transformed from bilateral territorial disputes into a structural contest for leadership over overlapping regional architectures including ASEAN, SAARC, SCO, BRICS, and Indo-Pacific initiatives. This competition manifests in parallel institutional designs, competing connectivity projects such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) versus India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), and divergent strategic alignments, all of which undermine the coherence of regional multilateralism. The study finds that the persistence of mistrust and geopolitical competition between Beijing and New Delhi has intensified institutional fragmentation, weakened collective security mechanisms, and reduced the capacity of Asian states to form unified responses to global challenges. By highlighting these trends, the article contributes to broader debates on regional order formation and offers insights into the prospects of cooperative frameworks amid rising multipolarity. It concludes that unless China and India can reconcile their strategic visions, Asian regionalism will remain fractured, limiting the continent’s ability to act as a cohesive actor in global governance.

Keywords: China–India Rivalry, Asian Regionalism, Indo-Pacific, Belt And Road Initiative, Multipolarity, Institutional Fragmentation

Hard Power over Soft Power: India’s Strategic Approach towards Pakistan

Sadia Zaheer — 2025-10-03

Regional stability in South Asia suffered a significant setback in May 2025 when India, accusing Pakistan of sponsoring cross-border terrorism, launched Operation Sindoor. This military escalation marked a new peak in the longstanding hostility between the two nuclear-armed neighbours and posed a serious threat to regional peace. While India has actively employed soft power strategies such as cultural diplomacy, development aid, and media influence across much of its neighbourhood, its approach toward Pakistan has remained predominantly hard power-oriented, largely due to enduring territorial and water disputes. Drawing on Joseph Nye’s concept of soft power, this article critically examines the 2025 India-Pakistan war to evaluate limitations of soft power in this volatile bilateral relationship. The study further explores the challenges that Pakistan may face in the post-conflict landscape. The study reveals that India’s unwillingness to utilize and promote soft power in Pakistan stems from multiple factors that remain unaddressed to date, consequently hampering the bilateral soft power potential. By adopting a case study approach, the research investigates the prevalence of hard power in India-Pakistan relations and exposed the limitations and potential of soft power in crisis management.

Keywords: Soft Power, India, Pakistan, Operation Sindoor, 2025 India-Pakistan war

Middle Powers in Flux: Rethinking ASEAN’s Role in a Multipolar Asia

Dr. Fazeel Ashraf Qaisrani — 2025-10-03

The transition from a unipolar to a multipolar international order has profoundly reshaped the strategic landscape of the Asia-Pacific. As the geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China intensifies in the post-2020 era, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) stands at a critical crossroads, balancing between competing powers while striving to maintain its centrality and cohesion. This article examines ASEAN’s evolving role as a collective middle power navigating the complex dynamics of security, geopolitics, and economic integration in a rapidly changing regional order. Through a synthesis of middle power theory and regionalism, it explores how ASEAN’s diplomatic strategies, institutional mechanisms, and normative frameworks are being recalibrated to respond to emerging challenges, including great-power rivalry, shifting trade patterns, and new security architectures. The study employs a qualitative research design, drawing on official ASEAN documents, policy statements, and scholarly literature to assess ASEAN’s strategic choices and their broader implications for regional stability. Findings suggest that while ASEAN’s normative emphasis on neutrality and consensus remains central, it faces increasing pressure to adapt to structural changes, diversify partnerships, and assert a more proactive strategic identity. The article concludes that ASEAN’s ability to redefine its role will depend on its success in strengthening internal cohesion, enhancing institutional capacity, and engaging constructively with external powers without compromising its autonomy.

Keywords: ASEAN, Multipolarity, Middle Power, Regionalism, Geopolitics, Indo-Pacific

Exploring Women Oppression: A Radical Feminism Study of “The Story of an Hour, By Kate Chopin”

Hafiza Rimsha Malik — 2025-10-03

The primary cause of women's oppression in modern civilization is male society. Kate Chopin's "The Study of an Hour" illustrates the detrimental effects of male dominance on the lives of women. To reform an entrenched system, strong resistance is required. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to use the primary character, Mr. Mallard, to emphasize radical feminism. The researchers employed a contextual approach to analyze the data. The secondary data for this study include Kate Millet's women's movement from sexual politics and the concept of the patriarchal system. In this study, the researchers investigates the idea that women's subordination is a result of patriarchal practices. Oppression entails skepticism of women's leadership, a lack of recognition or identity for men, and an inability to enjoy the same rights as men. The female protagonists use the resistance to drastically alter both their own lives and the society in which they live.

Keywords: Radical Feminism, patriarchy, subordination, female resistance, Kate Millet.

Principles of Justice and Equality in Shura and Democracy: A Comparative Study in the Light of Hanafi Jurisprudence

Dr. Muhammad Zakariya — 2025-10-02

This paper discusses the comparative philosophy of justice and equality in Shura (consultative governance) and Democracy, and this is done in the prism of Hanafi jurisprudence. The study notes that although in its modern context, democracy has been seen as the best form of government, it is anchored on the popular sovereignty, but in Islam, it is Allah who is the only sovereign with human beings serving as his vicegerents to enforce justice. Shura, which has its foundation in the Quran and Sunnah, is based on collective consultation with divine principles whereas democracy is based on majority rule and secular legal systems. The research is a qualitative and analytical research that uses the primary sources of Islam, the Quran (particularly, Surah Al-Shura and Al-Imran), Prophetic traditions, and classical works of Hanafi such as the al-Hidayah, al-Mabsut, and Radd al-Muhtar. It also includes the current works of scholars like Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Taha Jaber al-Alwani. The study examines four key areas, including (i) conceptual framework of Shura as a model of Islamic governance, (ii) principles of democracy, and its history in the West and in the Muslim world, (iii) Hanafi principles of justice, equality and social balance, and (iv) comparative analysis of the two systems in respects of human rights, minority representation, women, and leadership. Results indicate that Shura and democracy are similar in that they encourage consultation and representation, accountability, but differ essentially in their sources of legitimacy and moral limits. Within the Hanafi jurisprudence, the idea of justice not only implies equality before the law, but also the economic and moral equality, the ability to protect everyone, both women and minorities, under the system of the divine law. The paper finds that a balanced approach to the governance system in the Muslim societies, in which democratic institutions are supplemented by Shura and Hanafi principles, is capable of offering Muslim societies a more balanced system of governance that protects the concepts of justice, equality, and socio-political harmony.

Keywords: Shura, Democracy, Hanafi Jurisprudence, Justice and Equality, Islamic Political Thought

Astronomy and Islam: An Analytical Study of Scientific and Jurisprudential Aspects in the Light of Quran and Hadith

Haroon Ur Rasheed — 2025-10-01

Astronomy, as the study of celestial bodies such as stars, planets, the sun, the moon, galaxies, and cosmic phenomena, has always occupied a central place in human intellectual curiosity. In Islam, astronomy holds a unique significance as the Qur’an frequently invites humankind to reflect upon the heavens and the earth as signs of divine power and wisdom. This article explores the importance of astronomy in Islamic tradition, analyzing its scientific and jurisprudential dimensions in the light of the Qur’an and Hadith. Nearly fifteen hundred verses of the Qur’an emphasize cosmic phenomena, presenting them as evidence of divine oneness, wisdom, and order. Classical exegeses, such as those of Ibn Kathir, al-Tabari, al-Sa‘di, and modern interpretations by thinkers like Sayyid Qutb, highlight how these verses signify both theological truths and scientific realities, many of which align remarkably with modern astronomical discoveries.

The article further examines the jurisprudential relevance of astronomy in Islamic law. Acts of worship such as prayer times, fasting schedules, Eid determination, Hajj rituals, and zakat calculations are all intimately linked to the movement of the sun, moon, and stars. The role of lunar observations in the Islamic calendar and the debate over moon-sighting versus astronomical calculations are discussed in detail. Moreover, the study addresses modern challenges, including prayer and fasting in polar regions, satellite-based observations, and issues arising from the International Date Line. Contributions of classical Muslim astronomers such as al-Battani, al-Biruni, Ibn al-Shatir, and Ulugh Beg are also highlighted as evidence of the Islamic legacy in advancing astronomical sciences.

The article concludes that astronomy is not merely a secular science but a vital discipline that bridges faith and reason. It not only strengthens theological convictions by revealing the grandeur of divine creation but also serves as a practical necessity for religious observance. The integration of traditional jurisprudence with modern scientific methods is essential for addressing contemporary issues. The study recommends the establishment of specialized Islamic astronomical centers to harmonize religious principles with scientific advancements, ensuring both spiritual enrichment and intellectual leadership for the Muslim community.

Keywords: Qur’an and Astronomy, Hadith and Cosmic Phenomena, Islamic Jurisprudence and Astronomy, Moon-Sighting and Astronomical Calculations, Muslim Contributions to Astronomy

Critical Discourse Analysis of Quaid-i- Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s first speech in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on 11 August 1947

Ali Sher Jamali — 2025-10-02

The aim of this study is to critically analyze the historic speech of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah made at the first Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on 11 August 1947. The research applies the frameworks of CDA. The Fairclough’s model of social practice is also applied to analyze the speech. The social analysis of the address under discussion also constitutes the significant section of the study. In this regard, the Quaid’s stance against social problems of corruption, nepotism and black-marketing is also presented. The socio-political views in the address have been evaluated by discourse analysis. The study also stresses upon the analysis of ideology, principles, freedom, justice and equality in the speech of the founder of nation.

Keywords: Quaid-i-Azam, Muahammad Ali Jinnah, Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, Speech, Discourse, Critical Discourse Analysis, Socio-Political

The Changing Role of the United Nations in Global Governance in the 21st Century

Rameez Haider — 2025-10-01

The United Nations, established in the wake of World War II to safeguard international peace and security through a state-centric framework, faces an existential test in the 21st century. This article argues that the organization is defined by a central paradox: it is simultaneously adapting to new global challenges while being constrained by its outdated institutional architecture. The analysis employs a qualitative case study approach, drawing on UN documentation and secondary scholarship, and is guided by a theoretical framework synthesizing Liberal Institutionalism, Human Security, and Network Theory. The findings reveal a significant capacity for normative innovation, as seen in the adoption of agendas like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), and for operational adaptation through robust peacekeeping and multi-stakeholder partnerships. However, these advancements are consistently undermined by profound structural rigidities, most notably the Security Council veto power, which leads to paralysis on critical issues, and a volatile, donor-driven funding model. The discussion interprets these findings, highlighting the tension between the UN’s progressive agenda-setting and its regressive operational limitations, explained through the competing logics of different International Relations theories. The article concludes that while the UN remains an indispensable platform for global cooperation, its long-term effectiveness hinges on bridging the gap between its 21st-century ambitions and its 20th-century hardware. Its future likely lies not as a world government, but as the central node in an increasingly fragmented and polycentric global governance network.

Keywords: United Nations, Global Governance, 21st Century, Multilateralism, Security Council Veto, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Human Security, Multi-stakeholderism

The Role of Pakhtun Women in Militant Organizations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan) and Nangarhar (Afghanistan)

Fauzia Ali — 2025-10-01

The involvement of women in militancy is a growing reality across the world, yet their roles often remain hidden or underestimated. In societies like the Pakhtun belt of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan and Nangarhar (Afghanistan), women are usually seen as confined to domestic spaces. However, evidence shows that they too participate in militancy, both directly and indirectly. This study explores the ways in which Pakhtun women contribute to militant organizations, the factors that draw them into such activities, and the differences and similarities across the two regions. The research is based on qualitative methods, using unstructured interviews with women who have been directly or indirectly linked to militancy, along with secondary sources such as literature, reports, and documentaries. Findings reveal that women in these regions are not merely passive supporters but play active roles in militancy. Their contributions range from providing money and shelter, spreading militant ideology, and assisting with logistics, to spying and even carrying out suicide bombings. Patriarchal control, unquestioned religious devotion, and experiences of personal or communal loss emerge as the most powerful motivations. A comparison of KP and Nangarhar shows many parallels, though the forms of women’s involvement vary with local conditions and the structures of militant groups. The study argues that addressing women’s involvement in militancy requires more than just security measures. It calls for policies that empower women, challenge patriarchal structures, and offer alternative roles in peace-building and community resilience.

Keywords: Militancy, Terrorism, Pakhtun Women, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Nangarhar, Gender and Conflict