Category: Opinion Articles
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The Microchip Quest: U.S.–China Rivalry in the 21st Century
Microchips have emerged as the strategic resource of the twenty-first century, shaping economic power, military capability, and technological leadership. As the United States and China compete for dominance over semiconductor design, manufacturing, and supply chains, this rivalry is transforming global trade, redefining alliances, and intensifying tensions around critical chokepoints like Taiwan. Far more than an…
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Middle East Realignment after Gaza: From Proxy Wars to Direct Diplomacy?
The Gaza war has triggered a subtle but significant shift in Middle Eastern politics, exposing the limits of proxy warfare and accelerating a turn toward direct diplomacy. As Saudi Arabia, Iran, and regional middle powers recalibrate their strategies, the region stands at a crossroads between enduring conflict and pragmatic negotiation.
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US Attack on Venezuela and the Future of International Order
The United States’ military intervention in Venezuela has reignited critical debates over the structure of the international system. Contrary to claims of an emerging multipolar world, the crisis underscores the persistence of American unipolar dominance. From the limits of Chinese and Russian influence to the instrumental use of liberal norms, the episode highlights the enduring…
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US-China Rivalry: Pakistan’s Quest for Strategic Equilibrium
Caught between Washington and Beijing, Pakistan faces a complex balancing act as US-China rivalry intensifies. While China offers economic lifelines through CPEC and defense cooperation, the US remains critical for financial stability and counterterrorism ties. Over-commitment to either side risks economic vulnerability or geopolitical backlash. Pakistan’s best option lies in calibrated engagement, strategic ambiguity, and…
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US and China Trade War and its Implications
The US-China trade war, reignited in 2025 under President Trump’s renewed administration, is more than just a clash of tariffs—it’s a global power struggle with far-reaching economic consequences. From forced technology transfers to retaliatory tariffs and supply chain disruptions, this ongoing battle is reshaping international trade and alliances. Will diplomacy prevail, or are we heading…
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The Persistence of Gendered Violence in Pakistan
In a world shaped by legacy and survival, Freedom and Honor: A Tribal Tale captures the spirit of a warrior tribe fighting to preserve their land, identity, and dignity. Through breathtaking imagery and a timeless story of unity, strength, and purpose, this tale explores what it truly means to lead with honor—even when the odds…
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A Fractured World Order: The Rise of a New Global Divide
In a world increasingly divided by power politics, the recent Indo-Pak conflict and the Iran-Israel war expose the deep fractures in the global order. As the Trans-Atlantic bloc imposes its will through regime change and military coercion, the Asia-Pacific alliance offers an alternative rooted in development and mutual respect.
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Reimagining US-China Ties through Education and the Arts
Where traditional diplomacy falters, culture steps in. In this thought-provoking piece, Ayesha Abdus Salam explores how education and the arts can reimagine US-China relations—beyond politics and into shared human experiences. From student exchanges to collaborative art, the article highlights how classrooms, concert halls, and virtual galleries can shape a more peaceful and connected future.
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How Switzerland’s Nation Branding Campaign Shapes Identity and Excellence
Switzerland’s Swissness Campaign is a masterclass in nation branding — blending tradition with innovation, cultural pride with economic strategy. By showcasing quality, political stability, and unity in diversity, Switzerland has built a globally respected image. This article explores how Pakistan can adapt similar strategies to redefine its global identity and unlock political, social, and economic…
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Building Bridges Through Public Diplomacy: The Future of Pakistan-India Relations
This undergraduate thesis explores the current state and future potential of public diplomacy in Pakistan-India relations. Examining historical approaches and drawing lessons from developed nations like the US, UK, Turkey, and South Korea, the author analyzes why both India and Pakistan have yet to fully leverage their cultural assets for effective public diplomacy. The paper…
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Ceasefire: A Pause to War or Lasting Peace?
A ceasefire in Gaza offers fleeting hope, but lasting peace demands confronting root causes: occupation, systemic oppression, and global inaction. With 61,000+ lives lost and trauma lingering, temporary truces risk perpetuating cycles of violence. Can justice, accountability, and equitable statehood transform this pause into enduring peace—or will political inertia reign?
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RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR AND VULNERABILITIES OF CIVILIAN NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
The Russia-Ukraine war has highlighted the vulnerabilities of civilian nuclear power plants (CNPPs) in conflict zones, exposing them to threats like direct attacks, power disruptions, cyber sabotage, and material theft. With facilities like the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) caught in the crossfire, the war underscores the urgent need for robust international safeguards to prevent…
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Political unity in Pakistan: Analyzing collective stance on Palestine
Amid growing concerns over Israel’s aggression in Palestine, Pakistan’s political leaders have united for a common cause, setting aside domestic challenges to voice support for Gaza. This recent Multi-Party Conference marks a crucial moment, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to peace and human rights in Palestine. But can a unified Pakistan create lasting change for Palestinians?
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The Environmental Apocalypse: Lahore air quality
Environmental Apocalypse: Lahore air quality | OP-ED | Security Lense | 30-oct-2024 Lahore, the capital of Pakistan’s eastern province of Punjab, has once again drawn the attention of environmentalists due to a dramatic surge in its Air Quality Index (AQI). As a populated city of nearly 15 million on the Indian border, Lahore recently topped…
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Rising Extremism among Youth: The Need for Political Engagement
Extremism in Youth | OP-ED | Security Lense | 23-Oct-2024 “The youth are the leaders of tomorrow, but without guidance, they can become the misled of today.” Pakistan has seen a concerning increase in extremism among its youth in recent years. This phenomenon is not only a reflection of socioeconomic difficulties but is also a…
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Corruption in legal system of Pakistan: Who really pays the price?
Corruption has unfortunately become prevalent in Pakistan especially in the legal framework, the common er Kas off the social stratification, while the elites exploit institutions such as the NAB as tools of political persecution and shield. The latter remains a problem because of the recent changes which include restriction of the jurisdiction of the chamber,…
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The Untouchables; Why High-Profile Cases Rarely See Conviction
This is evident in Karsaz accident, Noor Muqaddam, Shahzeb Khan cases where justice is bought in Pakistan. Money and authority protect celebrities from getting convicted while the victims are left with no option than to suffer. This is a systemic inequality that requires judicial reform in order to have equal treatment of all people in…
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The double standard of justice: How elite escape accountability
In Pakistan, justice is often reserved for the common citizen, while the elite escape accountability through influence and power. High-profile cases, from the Noor Muqadam murder to the Karsaz incident, highlight the deep flaws in the judiciary. Despite constitutional promises of equality, elites continue to manipulate the system, raising questions about fairness and democracy.