TERRORISM is a complex phenomenon triggered by multiple causes which are often overlapping. That is why attempts to create a single cause of terrorism are often misleading.

For a country like Pakistan a perfect breeding ground for recruitment emerges when various social, cultural, economic, political and psychological factors come together.

However, all terrorist groups, be it Al Qaeda or the Taliban, share one common motive which is the willingness to kill or harm civilians for their cause.

This is why terrorism is ultimately a major security concern and forces the

state to take corrective measures.

Radicalisation or extremism, on the other hand, is the process or the initial step towards terrorism.

While we have been countering terrorism, we have overlooked the rampant radicalisation of our society which is why the foot soldiers for terrorist activities are in abundance.

It is pertinent that we embark upon an elaborate nationwide initiative to de - radicalise society or else the approach to fight terrorism will do little good.

SADIA HUSSAIN

Islamabad