National Geographic Photo Camp Pakistan - Expressions of Place Through the Eyes of Young Photographers

National Geographic Photo Camp

Supporting stability and security, countering violent extremism and building a foundation for political and social development in conflict-prone communities in Pakistan.

WHY USAID/OTI IS IN PAKISTAN

USAID/OTI launched its Pakistan Transition Initiative in 2007 to address the volatility and violent extremism that threatens Pakistan’s move toward social, political and economic stability. USAID/OTI implements activities that support the U.S. Government foreign policy priority to counter violent extremism (CVE) in the most difficult and vulnerable areas of the country.

USAID/OTI’S ROLE IN PAKISTAN

USAID/OTI works in three regions of Pakistan crucial to U.S. foreign policy goals:

• In the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a lack of confidence and trust in government institutions is the strongest driver of violent extremism. In response, USAID/OTI partners with nascent government agencies to implement small-scale service delivery projects, such as drinking water systems and school rehabilitation, through participatory processes that strengthen the relationship between local authorities and the communities they serve. 

• Southern Punjab is central to the violent extremism challenge in Pakistan, having historically provided tacit support and safe haven to violent extremist groups. In response, USAID/OTI develops and empowers a diverse network of individuals, organizations and government leaders to advocate for and implement community and regional CVE initiatives.

• In the mega-city of Karachi, social fragmentation based on deep-rooted sectarian, ethnic, political and socio-economic tensions contribute to complex security and governance challenges that violent extremist groups attempt to exploit. In response, USAID/OTI increases the collaboration between community groups opposed to extremism and reduces citizens’ financial and ideological support to violent extremist groups.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• USAID/OTI’s efforts to rehabilitate infrastructure in FATA have encouraged the return and reintegration of displaced persons and legitimized government actors through community development efforts targeting those most affected by conflict and neglect.

• USAID/OTI piloted a non-credit course at a university in southern Punjab on religious and social tolerance aimed at broadening the understanding of conflict resolution and increasing diversity and tolerance on campus. The university is now considering the course as a part of its regular curriculum.

• USAID/OTI supported the creation of a city-wide movement to counter divisive narratives and the influence of VE groups in Karachi. The movement’s success has been acknowledged by the Sindh Governor, the Prime Minister, the World Bank and at the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos.