PAKISTAN'S STRATEGIC CULTURE: IDENTITY, SECURITY, AND DECISION-MAKING

Abstract

Pakistan's strategic culture, shaped by its unique historical experiences, national identity, and geopolitical imperatives, plays a pivotal role in defining its security policies and decision-making processes. This research explores the multifaceted dimensions of Pakistan's strategic culture, aiming to elucidate how historical legacies, societal norms, and external pressures converge to influence its strategic calculus. Beginning with an examination of Pakistan's historical context, this study traces the evolution of its strategic thought from independence to the present day. It delves into theoretical frameworks of strategic culture, employing both constructivist and rationalist perspectives to analyze the intricate interplay between identity formation, threat perceptions, and military doctrine within Pakistan's policymaking circles. Central to this analysis are the key elements that constitute Pakistan's strategic culture: the construction of national identity amidst diverse ethnic and religious dynamics, the prioritization of security imperatives amidst persistent regional tensions, and the development of a nuclear doctrine in response to perceived existential threats. Furthermore, this paper investigates the institutional dynamics that shape Pakistan's strategic decision-making process, highlighting the pivotal roles played by the military establishment, political leadership, and civil bureaucracy. It also assesses external influences, including regional conflicts and global alliances, which exert significant pressures on Pakistan's strategic choices. Through case studies and comparative analysis, this research seeks to extract lessons from Pakistan's strategic experiences, offering insights into the challenges it faces and the potential shifts in its strategic culture. Ultimately, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Pakistan's role in regional stability and its implications for global security dynamics.