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EXPLORING THE EFFICACY OF THE NATIONAL ACTION PLAN IN PAKISTAN: ITS ROLE IN PREVENTING AND COUNTERING VIOLENT
EXTREMISM
DR. AYAZ KHAN
Chief Coordination Officer, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism,
Pakistan
Email: [email protected] DR. MUHAMMAD QASIM Director General, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, Pakistan
Email: [email protected] MR. MUHAMMAD WASIF Principal Research Officer Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism,
Pakistan Email: [email protected] MR. SAHAR ALI KHAN
Principal Research Officer Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism,
Pakistan Email: [email protected]
Abstract-This study examines the growth of CVE in response to the increasing prevalence of various forms of warfare, exploring its expanding scope and depth. This study examines the root causes of violent extremism in Pakistan and explores potential solutions to address this issue. Over a span of 20 years, Pakistan has been the focus of extensive research in this area. This study examines the implementation of the CVE policy in Pakistan. This study examines the various concerns present in Pakistan, highlighting the need for further investigation and analysis. This study examines the potential threat of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, highlighting the country as a potential target. This research employs discourse analysis to examine the portrayal of women and men in 38 national action plans developed to implement Resolution 1325 (2000) and related resolutions by the United Nations Security Council. This study examines the role of women in national action plans pertaining to counterterrorism and violent extremism. It highlights the prevalent tendency to assign women a subordinate and passive position within these plans. This study examines the perception that men are more prone to violence and extremism compared to women. This study's findings carry significant implications for future research endeavours and the implementation of policies pertaining to women, peace, and security. Key words: Countering Violent Extremism, Counterterrorism, National Action Plan
LEARNING TO RECOGNIZE THE INITIALS
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2242 on "women and peace and security" in October 2015. Resolution 2242 aims to update and expand the priorities of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. This is due to significant changes in peace and security governance since the first Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) resolution in 2000. UN Security Council passed Resolution 1325. Resolution 2242 mandates CT/CVE compliance. countermeasures against terrorism and extremism Resolution 2242 have three paragraphs addressing the alignment of the CT/CVE agenda with the WPS agenda. This section promotes women's involvement in countering violent extremism and integrating gender into the operations of the Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). Both are important in fighting violent extremism (para 11). (para 13). Resolution 2242 addresses sexism in terrorism and violent extremism, indicating increased attention from the Council. In 2014, the CT/"participation" CVEs and "protection" dimensions were added to the WPS agenda due to a Presidential Statement. Women and women's groups praised for their work on counterterrorism and countering violent extremism (CT/CVE) strategies. UN member states urged to support women in leadership roles and protect their rights against terrorist threats. Three new laws have been
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introduced to address terrorism and violent extremism on the WPS agenda. UNSCR 2242, a 2016 Presidential Statement, and two new resolutions (UNSCR 2467 and UNSCR 2493) are pieces of law. Practitioners and researchers working on the WPS agenda should consider how CT/CVE initiatives fit into the bigger picture. UN member states should prioritise CT/CVE in their national action plans (NAPs) for implementing UNSCR 1325 and related WPS resolutions. This will ensure that CT/CVE efforts are gender-sensitive and aligned with the principles in the WPS documents. This ensures successful CT/CVE efforts. The Council welcomed Member States' efforts to implement Resolution 1325 (2000) and encouraged them to continue working towards implementation. [Citation needed] To read more, check page 3 of document S/PRST/2004/40. States wrote NAPs to implement Resolution 1325, the first and only Security Council resolution titled "women and peace and security." National action plans (NAPs) guide the implementation of the WPS agenda at the national level, alongside regional action plans (RAPs) and guidelines from inter-governmental organisations (IGOs) like NATO and OSCE. In addition to regional action plans (RAPs), there are also plans that govern WPS in regional organisations like OSCE. Many UN agencies have their own WPS plans or related plans, in addition to the initiatives carried out by the whole UN system. To learn about the WPS agenda and its political effects, analyse the National Action Plans (Fritz et al., 2011; Aroussi, 2017). (Fritz et al., 2011; Aroussi, 2017). This study aims to examine the inclusion of gender-sensitive strategies in national action plans (NAPs) against terrorism and violent extremism. We will examine the use of these strategies. This study aims to explore women's involvement in CT/CVE at a national level. The study examines how gendered subjects are created in various NAPs. This research project explores how national action plans (NAPs) address women joining terrorist and extremist groups. WPS NAPs perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes in relation to terrorism and violent extremism, portraying men as inherently violent and extremist, and women as subordinate and passive. Research on gender, conflict, and political violence highlights the harm caused by traditional gender stereotypes. The WPS agenda aims to change peace and security governance. WPS agenda. [WPS] aims to empower women and transform peace and security governance, potentially challenging the militarist international system. The setback may be due to people associating terrorism with toughness and masculinity. Three parts to this situation. We will discuss the current knowledge in this field, including past research on the intersection of gender and CVE, as well as gender, conflict, and political violence. We'll discuss this after the research is presented. Next, we'll discuss our research methods, including the study population selection (n = 38; see Appendix 1 for details) and the analysis process. The third section analyses and interprets the results. We discuss the implications of the argument for future research on the WPS agenda and policy practise, particularly in relation to aligning implementation with CT/CVE initiatives.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
In a study conducted by Alison (2004), the author explores the impact of women's involvement in military roles within nationalist mobilisations. The findings suggest that despite their participation, certain male members perceive the presence and actions of women as a threat to the established psychological security associated with clearly defined gender roles. The examination of gender roles within cultural contexts is a crucial aspect of understanding societal dynamics. In this regard, the presence of female combatants poses a significant challenge to the established notions of masculinity, thereby engendering feelings of insecurity among men. This issue encompasses both individual and societal dimensions, as it pertains to the personal sense of masculinity as well as the broader cultural fabric.
In their recent publication, Said, Gul, and Akbar (2021) discuss the shortcomings and lack of clarity in the justice system provided by the NAP (National Arbitration Programme). The authors highlight that this system poses numerous challenges and pitfalls when it comes to delivering justice to individuals. In a governmental declaration made on March 10, 2015, it was stated that punitive measures would be taken against individuals who had engaged in acts of terrorism. In the month of June 2015, coinciding with the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, a significant number of individuals, totaling 170, were subjected to capital punishment through hanging. It is worth
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noting that a considerable portion of these executions were carried out on individuals who were not directly linked to acts of terrorism. According to the autonomous Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), existing literature suggests that the criminal justice system's shortcomings have contributed to an escalation in societal crime rates. The deleterious impact of utilising torture as a means to extract confessions on the justice system has been extensively documented in the literature. Numerous scholarly works have highlighted the detrimental consequences of employing such coercive methods, emphasising the erosion of fundamental principles of justice and the subsequent undermining of the integrity of legal systems. A comprehensive review of the existing literature reveals a consensus among scholars and experts that the use of torture for extracting confessions not only violates basic human rights but also undermines the very foundations of a fair and impartial justice system The detrimental effects of poverty have been extensively documented in the literature, particularly in relation to the lack of a comprehensive approach to addressing this issue.
Orakzai (2019) conducted a study that examined the implementation of a new counter-violent extremism (CVE) strategy following a tragic event in which the Taliban killed 150 school children at the Army Public School in Peshawar. The study revealed that in 2015, a strategy known as the National Action Plan (NAP) was adopted as a response to this incident. The comprehensive framework known as the 20 points of the National Action Plan (NAP) encompasses a wide range of strategies and tactics aimed at countering the threats posed by violent extremism (VE) and terrorism. This multifaceted approach incorporates both robust and subtle measures to effectively address VE at its core, particularly by focusing on grassroots initiatives and the disruption of militant extremist networks. The efficacy of the Non-Aggression Pact (NAP) remains questionable in light of the proliferation of extremist ideologies within the grassroots stratum of society, primarily attributed to the inadequate execution of a comprehensive counter-extremism approach. This analysis examines the case of the Mashal Khan lynching, the subsequent arrest and confession of Noreen Leghari, a young terror suspect, and the targeted attacks on Sufi shrines. These incidents collectively highlight the escalating prevalence of extremism within society and the inadequacy of current counter-violent extremism (CVE) frameworks.
In a recent study, Khan (2019) delved into the examination of the devastating terrorist attacks that occurred at Army Public School (APS) Peshawar on December 16, 2014. These attacks, characterised by their brutality, inflicted immense shock, pain, and anger within the community. As a response to this tragic event, a comprehensive and holistic strategy known as the "National Action Plan" was formulated. The development of the aforementioned initiative was a collaborative effort involving various governmental and non-governmental entities. Through a comprehensive and inclusive approach, a unanimous consensus was reached to address the pervasive issues of terrorism, militancy, and extremism within Pakistan. The National Action Plan (NAP), a comprehensive strategy consisting of twenty key components, was initiated by the military with the aim of dismantling terrorist networks operating within the nation. The fundamental concept underlying the twenty-point National Action Plan in Pakistan is the eradication of terrorism within the country. The necessity to establish a remedial and punitive course of action against terrorists has been emphasised. The military operation known as Zarb-e-Azb has been widely acknowledged for its positive outcomes. However, it is important to note that the intensified offensive also resulted in heightened security risks in previously stable regions. Consequently, in order to address these challenges at a national level, the operation's scope was expanded and rebranded as Radd-ul-Fasad. The implementation of the Non-Aggression Principle (NAP) by various state institutions has encountered significant political, diplomatic, administrative, and legal obstacles, resulting in a sluggish advancement towards the intended outcomes. In the context of politics and armed conflict, violence against women
The UN Security Council, or the Council, passed Resolution 2242 in October 2015. It focused on "women and peace and security." Resolution 2242 aims to update and expand the priorities of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. This is due to significant changes in peace and security governance since the first Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) resolution in 2000. Resolution 1325
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passed by the UN Security Council. Resolution 2242 introduced a new rule on CT/CVE compliance. Resolution 2242 has three paragraphs addressing the alignment of the CT/CVE agenda with the WPS agenda. This section promotes women's involvement in countering violent extremism and integrating gender into the operations of the Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). Both are important in fighting violent extremism (para 11). (para 13). Resolution 2242 addresses sexism in terrorism and violent extremism, indicating increased attention from the Council. In 2014, the WPS agenda included CT/"participation" CVEs and "protection" dimensions due to a Presidential Statement. UN member states are urged to support women's leadership and protect their rights in counterterrorism efforts. Three new laws have been introduced to address terrorism and violent extremism on the WPS agenda. UNSCR 2242, a 2016 Presidential Statement, and two new resolutions (UNSCR 2467 and UNSCR 2493) are pieces of law. Practitioners and researchers working on the WPS agenda should consider how CT/CVE initiatives fit into the bigger picture. UN member states should prioritise counterterrorism and countering violent extremism (CT/CVE) in their national action plans (NAPs) for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and related WPS resolutions. This will ensure that CT/CVE efforts consider gender and align with the principles in the mentioned WPS artefacts. The Council welcomed Member States' efforts to implement Resolution 1325 (2000) and encouraged them to continue working towards implementation. [Citation needed] Refer to S/PRST/2004/40, page 3 for details. States wrote NAPs to implement Resolution 1325 on "women and peace and security" after it was passed by the Security Council. National action plans (NAPs) guide the implementation of the WPS agenda at the national level, along with regional action plans (RAPs) and guidelines from inter-governmental organisations (IGOs) like NATO and OSCE. In addition to regional action plans (RAPs), there are also plans governing WPS in regional organisations like OSCE. Many UN agencies have their own WPS plans or related plans, in addition to ongoing projects by the UN system. NAPs are examined to understand the WPS agenda and its political impact (Fritz et al., 2011; Aroussi, 2017). This research aims to study gender-sensitive strategies in national action plans (NAPs) against terrorism and violent extremism. This study examines gendered topics in national action plans (NAPs) to understand women's challenges and opportunities in national-level CT/CVE participation.
Researchers studied national action plans (NAPs) to understand how they address women joining terrorist and extremist groups. WPS NAPs maintain harmful gender stereotypes by portraying males as naturally violent and extremist, and females as passive and submissive in CT/CVE. Men being naturally violent and extreme is harmful for everyone. Research on gender, conflict, and political violence highlights the harm caused by traditional gender stereotypes. The WPS agenda aims to change peace and security governance. [See below] WPS agenda. WPS aims to empower women and transform peace and security governance, including the militarist international system. The setback is due to people associating terrorism with toughness and masculinity. Three factors increase difficulty. This will discuss the current state of knowledge on the link between gender and CVE, as well as gender, conflict, and political violence. The text will examine the connection between gender, conflict, and political violence in relation to current knowledge. Next, we'll discuss our research methods, including the study population selection and the analysis process. The third section discusses and analyses the results and their methodology. We discuss the implications of the argument for future research on the WPS agenda and policy practise, particularly in relation to aligning implementation with CT/CVE initiatives. The WPS agenda is constantly changing, making this increasingly important.
Non-masculine but feminine counterterrorism and violent extremism strategies
Almost half of national action plans include "gender perspectives" in efforts to stop extremism and terrorism. The goal of the new counterterrorism strategy was to raise awareness about extremist violence and the government's response, aiming to reduce the gender imbalance in the impact of terrorism. Gender is linked to the effectiveness of responses to counter terrorism and extremism. The term "gender perspective" is often simplified to men and women experiencing terrorism and extremism differently. Extremists harm and exploit women more due to their limited understanding of gender, which fails to address systemic discrimination. Terrorists target women more than men.
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The NAP's policies and measures were not designed to empower women. New research questions the importance of being different. Extremist groups benefit from gender diversity. The Norwegian government states that countries incorporating gender perspectives into existing policies for CT/CVE have used two approaches (2019:54). To make this happen, we need to punish those returning from extremist territory severely. Step two: Ensure equal participation in treatment programmes for all genders. States recognising gender perspective acknowledge that women can be involved in violent extremism. People believed women's pacifism or involvement in women's activities would reduce their radicalism. Both sexes needed punishment, rehabilitation, and deterrence (Gentry, 2009; Brown, 2013; Patel and Westermann, 2018). Nigeria plans to develop and implement a strategy for de-radicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration, as stated in their National Action Plan. This aligns with strategies for prosecuting individuals linked to Boko Haram and ISIL. To follow the National Action Plan. The gender gap in Nigeria is widening, according to government statistics (Nigeria Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, 2017: 49). Three countries, including Nigeria, discuss a "same and equal" CT/CVE model in their NAPs. Terrorists and extremists will receive equal punishments regardless of gender. Different types of sex have varying power dynamics that affect their bodies, leading to social and political consequences. Uniform punishment for all regardless of background or criminal history suggests the state's inability to distinguish between various activities and factors influencing participation in extremist organisations. The state can't differentiate between the two things. Governments should develop strategies to counter radicalization and violent extremism (CT/CVE) by considering gender differences in extremist groups. One-third of countries plan to use deradicalization and reintegration programmes to combat extremism. States will teach men and women about values, ideologies, and citizens' rights and responsibilities for deradicalization. Extremists neglect civil duties. The goal is to make state standards the norm for everyone. States aim to develop leadership skills to address economic and social issues that contribute to terrorism. The policy aims to weaken the financial incentive for joining terrorist organisations by strengthening their infrastructures. The United States National Action Plan aims to promote moderate voices and attitudes through various means like radio, social media, civic education, and conflict resolution events. Another goal is to empower young men and women through activities and training in civic education, job and business skills, and leadership. 11 (US Federal Government Annual Report, 2016) US Federal Government Annual Report, 2016. Only these programmes were made for men, despite efforts by the NAPs to include both genders. The notion that women are weaker than men serve two purposes: to alleviate concerns about women's safety and prevent radicalization.
28% of national action plans include both men and women in CVE policies and programmes (United States Government, 2016: 11). National action plans acknowledge that anyone can engage in or support violent extremist activities. Other NAPs only show violent male extremists. The National Action Plan of Iraq states that hiding or harbouring a terrorist can result in a life sentence (Federal Government of Iraq and Kurdistan Regional Government, 2014: 9). In the NAPs, most main characters are violent men with ties to terrorist groups or extremism. The Iraqi National Action Plan uses "him" with "terrorist," implying male extremists are more common. Other gendered actors are not considered terrorists and are seen as lacking power (Federal Government of Iraq and Kurdistan Regional Government, 2014). They believe it's not illegal to hide or shelter a presumed male terrorist. Women and other characters are often sidelined or excluded from these stories, as if their proximity to male protagonists increases their likelihood of involvement in terrorism. The male protagonists' involvement in terrorism was influenced by their connection to the female protagonists. 7% of NAPs focus on supporting projects for young men's rights and reducing social pressures leading to extremism. NAPs include plans to "deradicalize" extremists by rebuilding relationships with them. This indicates that young men, who are part of a larger group of identified terrorist subjects, are considered "risky subjects" within communities (see Vaughan-Williams, 2008; Breen-Smyth, 2014; Salerno, 2017). The US National Action Plan (NAP) aims to address the concerns of young men who are most likely to be targeted by violent extremist groups. Violent extremist groups target young men for recruitment (United States Government, 2016: 11). Approximately
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one-third of NAPs discuss female terrorists. The NAPs treat women as lower class in terms of physical violence. National Action Plans state that women support terrorist groups in various ways. The Norwegian National Action Plan (NAP) states that women extremist ideologues recruit both men and women and pressure their family and friends to participate in extremist violence (Norwegian Ministries, 2019: 8). Women are not active participants or aggressors in this scenario. They are called "extremist ideologues" and "recruiters." Men are labelled as active participants and aggressors. The people they care about influence who they become. They are forced to become radical. Women in NAPs are portrayed as powerful recruiters, despite being noncombatants. Men with female relatives are seen as more approachable. Women with both career and motherhood roles are often negatively perceived. Gender roles in society, both in life and after death, can reinforce harmful norms by associating men with violence and women with caring. These roles involve caring for and assisting people. Women's power is weakened due to societal expectations of them as passive observers rather than active agents of change. Extremist groups target mothers due to their crucial societal roles. Jordan prefers texting to stay connected with others (Jordan National Commission for Women, 2018: 17).
Countries allowing women in combat roles doesn't mean they can act aggressively. Nigerian National Action Plan states that women are forced to join extremist groups as fighters. Written in the paper (NAP). Claiming women's involvement in terrorist groups as "against their will" raises ethical questions due to forced recruitment. The idea that external factors can make women violent reinforces the stereotype that women are naturally nonviolent and lack the freedom to choose. It also suggests that extreme acts of violence by women are a result of external influences. Women can choose to be violent. This framework uses force to control women, implying that men don't need it and supports the idea that men are more prone to violence. It's not about being male or female, but about having a living soul
It is quite intriguing to note that a mere 5% of National Action Plans (NAPs) have thus far recognised and acknowledged the undeniable reality that male victims of terrorism are subjected to similar grave consequences as their female counterparts. This striking statistic highlights the prevailing lack of awareness and understanding within the realm of counterterrorism efforts, where the unique vulnerabilities and experiences of male victims have been regrettably overlooked and underrepresented. As an illustrative instance, it is worth noting that the Jordanian National Action Plan, a comprehensive document devised by the esteemed Jordan National Commission for Women, has explicitly emphasised the profound gravity of the issue of extremism, underscoring its detrimental impact on both genders within society. This insightful plan, meticulously crafted to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the nation, has astutely recognised the imminent threat posed by extremism, acknowledging its potential to disrupt the lives of women and men alike. This recognition serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Jordanian government to safeguard the well-being and security of its citizens, particularly in the face of such a formidable menace. The Nonviolent Action Plans (NAPs) astutely acknowledge the grave and pervasive nature of extremist violence, which poses a significant peril to the safety and security of all individuals. In a commendable display of inclusivity, these plans meticulously encompass both men and women within their definition of victims, thereby underscoring the universal vulnerability and shared responsibility in combating this menace. The rationale behind this decision is rooted in the recognition that extremist violence has the potential to impact individuals across the gender spectrum. It is important to acknowledge that the repeated utilisation of binary language inadvertently disregards and fails to encompass those who identify outside the traditional categories of women and men. According to recent data, a significant proportion, precisely 42%, of Non-Aggression Pacts (NAPs) contain explicit provisions acknowledging the pivotal role of women in decision-making processes. These progressive statements not only recognise the agency and capabilities of women but also emphasise their indispensable contribution to fostering peaceful resolutions, even in the face of extremist violence. This noteworthy finding underscores the growing recognition within NAPs of the imperative to empower women and harness their unique perspectives and skills to achieve lasting peace in conflict-ridden contexts. According to the data, a
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significant proportion of Non-Actionable Propositions (NAPs) - approximately 55% - depict women in the role of passive bystanders. Furthermore, it is worth noting that such statements, which perpetuate this portrayal, are found in approximately 42% of all NAPs. In our society, there exists a perception that women, regrettably, are often regarded as being even more helpless and vulnerable than children. As a result of these unfortunate circumstances, the fundamental rights that they are entitled to as human beings are unjustly stripped away from them. Contrarily, it is worth noting that the realm of children's rights is one that knows no bounds or restrictions. According to the National Action Plan of Jordan, it is unequivocally stated that the pernicious impact of terrorist attacks and violent extremism is particularly pronounced when it comes to the fairer sex, specifically women and girls, during times of armed conflict. This perilous situation not only jeopardises their physical well-being but also severely curtails their fundamental entitlement to exercise basic human rights. This statement holds true in two significant aspects: firstly, it pertains to the paramount importance of ensuring safety, and secondly, it emphasises the essentiality of having the capability to exercise this safety. This assertion finds support in the research conducted by the Jordan National Commission for Women in 2018, as documented on page 16 of their report. Approximately 10% of Non-Aligned Parties (NAPs) strategically employ statistical data pertaining to the unfortunate casualties inflicted upon women and children by extremist factions, in order to substantiate the notion that the female gender is inherently feeble, lacking in maturity, and incapable of autonomously advocating for their fundamental entitlements and personal security. The issue at hand is of utmost urgency and requires immediate attention in order to rectify the situation promptly. Based on a comprehensive report released by the esteemed Palestinian National Authority, it has been distressingly revealed that a staggering number of innocent Palestinian civilians, totaling no less than 1,417 individuals, tragically lost their lives due to the unfortunate circumstance of being categorised as non-combatants. Among this heart-wrenching figure, it is profoundly disheartening to note that 111 women and 412 children, who should have been shielded from harm's way, were regrettably included in this distressing tally. As a result of these devastating attacks, a significant number of individuals from the Palestinian community, specifically 4,336 individuals, were unfortunately subjected to harm and injury. Among this distressing figure, it is disheartening to note that numerous women and children were also affected, further amplifying the gravity of the situation. According to a statement released by the ministry in the year 2015, it has been observed that within the region of Palestine, there exists a distinct emphasis on the gravity and significance attached to the unfortunate loss of lives belonging to the female gender and the younger members of society, as opposed to the deaths of their male counterparts. Throughout various forms of media and societal portrayals, it is not uncommon to observe a recurring pattern in the representation of women, which draws parallels to the depiction of children. Regrettably, women are frequently portrayed as vulnerable and reliant individuals, perpetuating the notion that they are in constant need of assistance and support from their male counterparts. This portrayal not only reinforces traditional gender roles but also undermines the agency and capabilities of women, ultimately hindering their empowerment and progress in society. Within the framework of these Non-Aggression Principles (NAPs), an unwavering commitment to upholding respect is extended to victims of all genders, without any distinction or bias. Both male and female victims are accorded equal and equitable treatment, ensuring that their dignity and well-being are safeguarded in an unbiased manner. Due to this particular mindset, governments tend to propose alternative approaches for safeguarding women that do not rely on military intervention. One potential course of action involves implementing a series of measures aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women, thereby reducing their vulnerability to extremist violence. By bolstering protective mechanisms and fostering an environment that empowers women, we can effectively mitigate the risk they face. Additionally, it is crucial to address the issue of radicalization by providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation programmes for individuals who have become ensnared in extremist ideologies. By offering them a path to disengage from radical groups and reintegrate into their communities, we can foster a sense of belonging and prevent further acts of violence. In summary, a multifaceted approach that
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encompasses both preventative measures to safeguard women and rehabilitative efforts to aid those who have been radicalised is essential in countering the threat of extremism. Within the comprehensive framework of the National Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina, a document of utmost significance, it is explicitly stated that a paramount focus will be directed towards the critical issue of women and children who are tragically exploited as instruments of violent extremism and terrorism. This pressing matter, which demands our unwavering attention, will be addressed with utmost diligence and dedication. Special attention will be devoted to addressing the urgent and critical needs of the vulnerable children and women who have been forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing conflicts in Iran and Syria. The issue of human rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the dire situation faced by refugees, has been extensively discussed and documented by the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina in their comprehensive report published in 2017. This report sheds light on the various challenges and obstacles that both the government and the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina have been grappling with in their efforts to uphold and protect human rights, particularly in relation to the vulnerable refugee population. The Ministry's report highlights the complex nature of the human rights situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasising the need for continuous efforts to address the numerous issues that arise. It underscores the importance of recognising and safeguarding the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their nationality or legal status. Moreover, the report emphasises the significance of providing adequate support and protection to refugees who have sought refuge within the borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as they face unique challenges and within the confines of this particular system, it is disheartening to acknowledge that women and children are tragically coerced into becoming instruments of destruction, thereby rendering them as unwitting casualties of the very conflicts they are thrust into. Gendering the interventions: modes and means
About 25% of national action plans to combat terrorism and violent extremism portray men as the primary heroes. These NAPs highlight the need to educate and train more men for diplomatic and law enforcement roles in states on the WPS agenda. This is important for effectively combating extremist violence. The Slovenian National Action Plan (NAP) aims to train male employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This includes those who work in diplomatic missions, consular posts, international organisations, and international missions. The training will focus on the gender perspective and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda. Maybe the men working in Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs believe they know a lot about "the gender perspective and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda," but it's more likely that they only think they do. Women are considered good at CT/CVE because they are nurturing and peaceful. 26% of NAPs believe that involving women in the development process can enhance state efforts in countering terrorism and violent extremism (CT/CVE). Including women in the development process is believed to help states improve their efforts in CT/CVE. According to Jordan's National Action Plan (NAP), women in Jordan are trained to recognise and address early signs of radicalization in a safe and confidential manner (Jordan National Commission for Women, 2018: 31). Including women in CT/CVE projects is important because they are often seen as caretakers and can contribute to making the state safer. This will help ensure the projects are successful. Regardless of their level of involvement, this is still true. People often believe that women, due to their upbringing, are submissive, non-violent, and better at recognising signs of radicalization compared to men. The Jordanian National Action Plan suggests that women's inclination towards peace can assist in P/CVE efforts by fostering unity among people. This is one way these efforts can help.
According to a report by the Australian Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (2012), 23% of NAPs involve women in preventing extremist violence. This connects "women and girls" with the importance of state efforts to combat extremism and support the empowerment of "women and girls." States strive to consider various perspectives when engaging in counterterrorism and countering violent extremism efforts. This is good, but it suggests that women are seen as immature because they are treated like children, must obey men, and are not given a chance to express themselves. While some NAPs acknowledge the importance of women
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as leaders in national CT/CVE efforts, only 10% of NAPs recognise the need for additional training and education for women to fully participate in these efforts. Despite the recognition of women as important leaders in CT/CVE efforts by many NAPs, this is still true. For instance, the NAPs focused on providing training for women civilians to enhance their capacity, participation, protection, and engagement. The US National Action Plan for Women and Girls wants to help women and girls deal with challenges related to violent extremism. Many people think that women's nurturing abilities alone can prevent terrorism and violence in casual social situations. However, women are often seen as weak and lacking confidence, needing training to take part in government counterterrorism and countering violent extremism efforts beyond their nurturing roles. This suggests that people believe women's innate nurturing abilities alone can prevent terrorism and violent extremism in everyday social situations. Society believes that women and girls have different community involvement needs compared to men and boys, so they are placed in the "social" sphere instead of the political sphere. To encourage more women to join counterterrorism and counterextremism efforts, states should find ways to locate and engage women and girls, persuade them to get involved, and support them with the resources they need. If we ignore the problems that women face and how society is unfair to them, women won't be able to gain power. Many countries, about 31% as of March 2017, have made commitments to pass laws or provide funding to support gender equality and empower women to participate in CT/CVE initiatives. For instance, the Iraqi National Action Plan (NAP) states that a law has been passed allowing women to work in security services like the Ministry of Interior and Intelligence (Federal Government of Iraq and Kurdistan Regional Government, 2014: 8). When women participate in CT/CVE, it is believed that it can lead to peace because they discuss multiple NAPs. These NAPs depict women as peaceful and caring individuals, referring to them as the mothers and sisters of extremist males. The WPS agenda is important because when more women participate, peace and security initiatives are more successful. The National Action Plan (NAP) of Montenegro emphasises that women's participation in CT/CVE initiatives is crucial for sustainable peace and security, as research clearly demonstrates. The NAP emphasises the importance of women's involvement in CT/CVE efforts (Montenegro Ministry of Defence, 2017: 3). The Montenegrin Ministry of Defence said this in 2017. Women have a unique approach to peace, and they should have an equal say in security governance. For more details on how women's involvement impacts peace talks, check out O'Reilly et al. (2014) and Stone (2014). Women are important in deradicalization because they can help communities fight against terrorism and extremism. Most people believe that women are naturally more peaceful, but this idea contradicts that belief. It also encourages women to work in CT/CVE jobs such as advocacy and peacemaking. The Norwegian National Action Plan says that women are strong peace activists. They work to resist violent extremism and run programmes to help people leave extremist groups and reintegrate into society. 52% of NAPs also highlighted the importance of gender-specific strategies to counter radicalization and extremism. This includes collaborating with women-led civil society organisations to develop programmes and campaigns that address extremist ideologies while considering gender sensitivity. 52% of the plans discussed this. The National Action Plan of Bosnia and Herzegovina highlights the importance of supporting citizens and civil society organisations in their efforts to prevent and promote positive narratives. This means countering violent extremist ideas by showcasing positive examples of these values. These things are called "positive narratives" (Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees, 2017: 26). These policies acknowledge the importance of personal relationships and the local setting. We hope that sharing this information will help plan and carry out campaigns to promote the rights of underrepresented groups, raise awareness about extremism, and fight harmful ideologies at different levels. These efforts show that women are peaceful and skilled at creating a fair and peaceful society. Women's power and knowledge are not always acknowledged because people think that activities happening in local communities and civil society are less significant than formal politics.
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CONCLUSION
Based on our research, we have found that including CT/CVE (Counterterrorism/Countering Violent Extremism) on the agenda of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiative does not necessarily ensure the inclusion of women in a state's strategic planning for security. Furthermore, it does not guarantee that the resulting policies from such planning will prioritise and uphold women's human rights. Additionally, it is important to note that the inclusion of CT/CVE (Counterterrorism/Countering Violent Extremism) on the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda does not guarantee the participation of women in WPS initiatives. According to Aoláin (2016), Gender Action for Peace and Security (2018), Heathcote (2018), and Trojanowska et al. (2018), there are several authors who have discussed the issue of tokenization of women in CT/CVE initiatives in 2018. These authors have written about their findings in the year 2018. In WPS NAPs (Women, Peace, and Security National Action Plans), men are often portrayed as violent extremists and counterfigures, while women are typically depicted as carers and bystanders. While it is true that men can also be victims of extremist violence, it is worth noting that most national action plans (NAPs) primarily address the impact of this issue on women. Throughout history, there has been a prevailing belief that men are inherently more dangerous than women and therefore require greater protection from the government. In narratives about victims, women in non-affiliated political movements (NAPs) are frequently portrayed as innocent bystanders to extremism, reflecting the prevalence of their experiences. In non-affiliated persons (NAPs), individuals involved in acts of terrorism often specifically target women as victims and subsequently attempt to recruit them. The majority of individuals who attended were women. In the context of Women's Peace Service NAPs, there exists a prevalent negative stereotype surrounding women who engage in recruiting activities for extremist groups. The issue at hand requires resolution. Women, due to their strong connections with men and their nurturing roles as mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters, possess a unique advantage in sharing information regarding individuals who may have become radicalised within their community. Women are the most suitable individuals for providing information. When most individuals involved in a Non-Aggression Pact (NAP) are men, there is a significant focus on predicting and addressing extremism. It is unfortunate that certain states lack the necessary resources to effectively plan and execute the implementation of CT/CVE security measures. Training and education for women are commonly included in government programmes that aim to reduce support for terrorist groups and violent extremism. Women play a crucial role in both preventing terrorism and curbing violent extremism. At the state level, media portrayals of women in CT/CVE (Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism) are utilised to promote Women, Peace, and Security National Action Plans (WPS NAPs) that specifically target women and certain groups. Women are one of the target groups that companies focus their marketing efforts on. Women often face challenges when trying to advance in the field of counterterrorism due to the hostile nature of the environment. There is a common perception that all men have the potential to engage in extremist behaviour. The difficulty arises when programmes aimed at countering terrorism and extremism struggle to engage men in a constructive manner. Many stories, particularly those centred around oppressed groups, often depict men as violent psychopaths who have been radicalised. The state's counter-extremism initiatives, also known as anti-terrorism and counter-extremism initiatives, fail to consider the various religious, social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to individuals joining extremist groups. Certain countries face challenges in preventing the radicalization of young men and their subsequent involvement in extremist organisations. The way women are discussed varies depending on whether the topic of discussion is security policy or practise. The primary objective of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiative is to increase the participation of women in conversations related to national security and the promotion of peace. Society often overlooks the potential threats posed by extremism and terrorism, as they are not frequently discussed. According to Fionnuala N. Aoláin, in 2016, both CT/CVE (counter-terrorism/countering violent extremism) and WPS (women, peace, and security) initiatives are responsible for promoting gender essentialism. This promotion of gender essentialism increases the likelihood of women facing financial difficulties. The author argues that
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both these initiatives contribute to the challenges women face in making ends meet. N Aolain's statement was accurate, however, it is unfortunate that it is not positive news. Further investigation is required to determine whether women's involvement in countering terrorism and violent extremism (CT/CVE) is equivalent to their participation in peace and security governance.
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