Civil-military Equation in Pakistan : Perception And Reality

Writer: Maj Gen (R) Shaukat Iqbal

Pages: 209

Category: English

Civil-military relations is the study of how the military interacts with the state and society. The management of civil-military relations is a key to effective governance, particularly in states undergoing the transition to democracy like Pakistan. Military is generally held in high esteem in Pakistan owing to its strong nationalistic character, keeping the arch rival India at bay despite the qualitative and quantitative differential and impressive performance in nation-building tasks. However, there is a perception that due to its perpetual stay in national polity, the civil-military relations are somewhat strained. Due to the authority and position it enjoys, perception of ‘military elitism’ has also emerged in the public, which draws criticism both locally and from abroad. The book is first of its type which gives out true picture of civil-military equation and suggests a pragmatic and viable options to keep this equation balanced for strengthening of our beloved country Pakistan."

Content of Book:

• Abbreviations used
• Introduction
• Preface
• 1. Conceptual framework of civil-military relations
• 2. Civil-military relations in Pakistan
• a historical perspective
• 3. Chronology of military intervention in politics
• 4. The Armed Forces and the politics views of analysts from civil society
• 5. Role of the Armed Forces in State/Nation building
• 6. Analysis - reasons for deteriorating civil-military relations
• 7. Analysis of political parties and political leadership
• 8. Interviews/comments of analysts/officials on civil-military relations
• 9. Civil-military equation - situation in FATA and Karachi
• 10. Latest key trends in strategic and political environment of Pakistan and its impact on civil-military equation
• 11. Suggested strategy to improve civil-military relations
• Bibliography.