GONE are the days when the state monopolised the flow of information. The world has transitioned from a global village to a global street anyone with a smartphone can act as a reporter,broadcaster or producer, making the task of protecting national interests more complex. A narrative is the story a nation tells itself and others about its history, identity, values and goals. A master narrative explains social structure and rules, and motivates people to live in harmony. By focusing on history, culture and identity, it keeps younger generations connected to the past while promoting national integration even in a culturally diverse society.

Violent non-state actors exploit the media, striving to push an alternative narrative. The effectiveness of a narrative depends on the quality of the messenger, message and medium. Alternative narratives challenge dominant or outdated views and foster positive change by using language that appeals to all, regardless of differences. They promote peace, tolerance and inclusion without taking extremist content head-on.

Cyberspace gives extremist groups speed and reach. In a society where many push and pull factors nurture violent extremism, a rebuttal built solely on religious arguments is insufficient. The Paigham-i-Pakistan decree, signed by 1,800 ulema condemning suicide bombing, though laudable, implied that misinterpreting religion is the sole cause of violence, overlooking ethnic, sectarian, political and external drivers. So, our counter-narrative must reflect all these voices.

Escapism isn`t an option. If the flow of information is halted, hostile camps will fill the vacuum with their message. It is better to keep citizens informed so they feel included in solutions rather than trapped in grievance-base d stories. Narrative building was once a federal domain; the provinces had only symbolic roles. But since the 18th Amendment, culture and education have become provincial domains, so collaboration between the centre and provinces is vital to improve the narrative. Local needs and ethnic and sectarian diversity must guide prevention efforts.

Religion has often been used by elites and militants. Yet at the ballot box, Pakistanis generally choose more democratic options, reflecting enlightened choices and voices. These, too, belong in a narrative aimed at external audiences.

Parliaments in democracies should lead this debate, but many have yet to define violent extremism. Nor should narrativebuilding be the preserve of a few influencers; it`s an intellectual domain open to revision and appreciation.Policies should reflect national narratives. Documents drafted solely by bureaucrats rarely get public endorsement. In a changing environment, preventive engagement should precede reactive steps, and responses be designed for the digital sphere. Militants have attacked democracy, modern education (especially girls` schooling) and polio campaigns. Illiteracy, poverty, gender disparity, political marginalisation and a delayed, costly justice system provide fuel to extremists. Social reform and justice overhaul are thus integral to any national narrative.

The world shuttles between arrogance and egotism; the challenge for a developing state in a strategiclocationis to shield itself from hostile powers. Sole dependence on history will not suffice; respect for rights, diversity, transparency and justice must accompany it. A national narrative should be co-owned by the state and people, nurtured by dialogue within constitutional limits.

History, events and personalities shapenarratives. Greece smaller than Sindh and with half of Karachi`s population draws 36 million tourists through its classical heritage. Japan, once defined by the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings, rebuilt its image and now con-tributes 12.5 per cent f the N budget while ranking among the world`s top tourist spots. Painful pasts can be reimagined for present gain.

The recent Indian withdrawal from the Indus Waters Treaty indicates a lack of belief in peaceful coexistence. In the recent Pak-India stand-off, Pakistan`s external narrative stressing retaliation against aggression as the only option for a peaceful nation earned the country global praise for its commitment to diplomacy and peace.

With vast demographics, fertile diversity, rich archaeology, and sacred sites, Pakistan can attract visitors. Eight stints in the UNSC and significant contributions to peacekeeping efforts abroad deserve amplification. Repeated elections to the Human Rights Council and the UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee further underline its readiness to shoulder global responsibilities. Narrative building is not a short-term endeavour but a continuous, collective effort. Ours must celebrate diversity as strength. • The wnter is author of Pakistan: I n Between Extremism and Peace.

X: @alibabakhel