National Youth Conference: Youth urged to struggle for change

Speakers underline need for democratic struggle.

ISLAMABAD:

Speakers at a two-day conference on Tuesday urged the youth to mobilise themselves for change within the democratic framework at the Allama Iqbal Open University.

The Constitution gives enough space to organise ourselves and to make our rulers accountable and we must use that space, said Sarwar Bari of Pattan Organisation, while speaking at a panel discussion on “Radicalisation and feeling of insecurity” at the concluding session of the National Youth Conference, “Building a democratic society.”

Citing the example of Western countries, he said that learning from their experiences, the middle classes should reach out to sections of society which are looking for change.

He emphasised the role of civil society, political parties, judiciary and social movements who enjoy the space to change the status quo through a democratic system.

Sustainable change, he added, is a long process, which requires time and patience and does not necessarily follow a smooth trajectory. “Terrorists do not believe in the ability of people to organise themselves and speak up, they look for quick fixes through violence as opposed to democratic development,” he said.

Bari also alluded to the dichotomy of the pro-Taliban political groups who seek negotiations and have been elected through a democratic process, compounding the youth’s confusion.

Anees Jillani, a senior lawyer of the Supreme Court talked about rising hopelessness, unemployment and frustration among the youth due to lack of entertainment, opportunity and direction to channelise their energies.

Pointing to the prevalent class system in the country, he underlined the importance of a socially-just system, as an antidote to violence and aggression. He said the youth would have to create their own space, through a knowledge-based, sustained struggle.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 30^th, 2013.