The Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund convened a consultative dialogue in Karachi that brought together senior government representatives and leaders of Sindh-based civil society organizations to discuss coordinated action on prevention and countering of violent extremism.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the Government of Sindh’s Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism and PPAF to promote inclusive, community-driven approaches to PCVE. Stakeholders emphasised the need for locally led interventions that address the socioeconomic roots of radicalisation, with PPAF CVE partnerships positioned as a central platform for such work.
Mr Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar, Minister for Home, Law, Parliamentary Affairs & Criminal Prosecution, attended as the chief guest and underlined government commitment to joint programming. Other key participants included Mr Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Additional Chief Secretary Home, Mr Azad Khan, Additional IG CTD, Mr Muntazir Mehdi, Prosecutor General Sindh, and Mr Naveed Arain, Deputy Secretary Home Department, all of whom highlighted operational and policy levers to support coordinated action.
Speakers at the dialogue repeatedly drew the link between poverty and extremism, noting that sustainable prevention requires investment in social inclusion, education, and livelihood opportunities. Civil society representatives stressed their role in building community resilience and promoting peace, offering examples of grassroots engagement that complement government efforts.
Participants recognised the long-standing experience and commitment of PPAF partner organisations across Sindh and described the dialogue as an important step toward a stronger government–civil society interface. Moving forward, the collaboration anchored by PPAF CVE aims to translate shared priorities into joint programs that reduce vulnerability to violent extremism while advancing inclusive development across the province.
