Pakistan, a nation of immense potential, struggles with a fragmented socio-political landscape. Though culturally and ethnically diverse, Pakistan does not match the scale of diversity seen in the United States or India. The US, often described as a melting pot, houses almost every nationality, while India boasts over two thousand ethnicities and over 300 languages.

Despite these complexities, both nations have successfully forged cohesive societies, largely due to their adherence to political and democratic principles. In stark contrast, Pakistan, with comparatively fewer cultural and ethnic divisions, remains mired in polarisation, sectarianism, and extremism. Why has democracy served as an “abstract glue” for some societies while Pakistan continues to falter?

The answer lies in the consistent absence of a robust and inclusive political process in Pakistan. Democracy, at its core, is a system that binds diverse communities by acknowledging their unique identities while channeling them into a unified national identity. It fosters a sense of belonging, patriotism, and collective purpose. Yet, Pakistan’s history reflects a failure to cultivate this glue due to repeated disruptions in its political and democratic journey.

By neglecting the development of political leadership with........

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