THE list of challenges Pakistan is currently facingisratherlongasthey are spread across various segments of our national existence, including society, economy, politics andjust abouteverythingelse.

Among these challenges, maintaining order and internal harmony is of utmost importance as the confrontational overtones are increasing around the globe.

Withnationalelectionsscheduledinover 60 countries, around a couple of billion voters, comprising approximately a quarter of the world`s population, are expected to casttheirvotesin their respective countries.

The outcome of the elections in the United States is particularly crucial, given its status as the world`s largest economy, and Pakistan`s significant and historical ties with it. A successful transition of power in Pakistan and public acceptance ofelection results are vitalforfostering strong economic growth.

However, concerns arise in the US as Donald Trump, a leading candidate, is openly criticising the different branches of state power, particularly the powerful Federal Reserve (Fed), which is the American central bank, and openly opposes the idea of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) that has been often suggested by the Fed in recent times.

His expressed desire for peace with Russia and criticism of Nato can further contribute to internal conflicts within different branches of military-industrial power in case he does secure victory.

These are all negative points with respect to social cohesion, and, in turn, bad for economic growth.

Examining the historical context, it wasphilosopher Thomas Hobbes who studied the English Civil War of 1642, which had caused the death of 4.5 per cent of the population and to date remains the bloodiest conflict in the history of the British Isles. He argued that republics, characterised by internal power struggles, find peace only when they are faced with an external enemy.

Hobbes is best known for his 1651 book Leviathan in which he expounded the famous and influential formulation of his social contract theory. Hobbes argued that in a pure monarchy, the hierarchy is clear, and the individual in charge is evident. However, in a republic, there i potential for anyone to assume leadership, and that can lead to chaotic infighting, as many individuals tend to vie for power by attacking each other.

According to Hobbes, a republic, as stated above, experiences peace only when confronted with an external enemy.

In his renowned work, he emphasised thatthe absence ofan externalthreat in a republic would swiftly plunge it intointernalstrife and discord as each would jostle to take power and then to maintain status quo.

In the light of such complexities of human nature, it may well be prudent to reconsider democratic structures that seem to be faltering. The powers that be need to understand that denying public will make matters far worse than they currently are.

As an alternative, embracing Hobbes` suggestion and identifying external challenges and threats to unite the public may provide a an effective way forward.

Addressing the current crisis demands thoughtful reflection on the foundations of the republic, and a solid commitment to finding viable solutions. This will enable a republicto keep anyfurtherinternal confrontation at bay, and remain stable.

Adil Hamf London