Khudi Pakistan

Khudi

Khudi is a Pakistani social movement run by young, progressive Pakistanis[1] to counter the spread of extremist ideology within Pakistan, predominantly amongst younger generations of Pakistanis, who now constitute 63% of the total population. Its mission is to counter extremism through the promotion of a democratic culture of healthy debate and discussion.

The movement was established as a response to the current situation in Pakistan where the minority of extremist groups that exist in the country are attempting to monopolise the public discourse of the majority in order to further their own radical agendas. Khudi was founded on the belief that a credible solution to the presence of subversive ideologies can be found through a civil society response that will challenge extremist arguments in the ideas domain.

Objectives

Khudi seeks to promote openness, unity and respect for difference within society. At its core, the Khudi movement works to reinforce pride in the history and identity of Pakistan, while upholding the legacy of pluralism, progress and democratic values as passed down by the founder of Pakistan, the Quaid-e-Azam, Mohammed Ali Jinnah.

Khudi has various long-term initiatives that are aimed at encouraging the use of dialogue and discussion as the primary tools for dispute resolution, and to foster a culture of healthy debate amongst the youth. To this end, Khudi organises regular workshops, conferences and debates, as well as partaking in public services and civil society associations and engagements. The key issues that Khudi wishes to address through such initiatives are those of identity, nationalism, democratic governance, women’s rights and regional stability, as the Khudi team believes these areas are integral to the prosperity and progress of Pakistan.

Main Areas of Work

Educate

An important area of work is the production and translation of literature in English and Urdu from a wide variety of sources, providing insights into pressing issues facing Pakistan today. Through the production of literature Khudi is able to promote access to information, raise awareness of key issues and provide exposure to differing viewpoints in order to allow free thinking people to form opinions and arrive at workable solutions. The movement also engages all forms of media in Pakistan and abroad, to raise interest and spread awareness about its cause.

'The Laaltain (Lantern)'

Khudi runs an inter-university campus magazine under the name of ‘The Laaltain’ (Lantern), which provides a platform for young people across Pakistan to comment on issues of social and regional relevance without fear of reprisal. The purpose behind the magazine is to improve communication channels between the youth of various provinces, who have few opportunities to interact with or learn from each other.

Inspire

Khudi is also a cultural and creative platform that uses innovative avenues to encourage the youth to envision a better future through music, art, film, poetry and photography. The movement uses creative avenues to address social issues and to fight against the suppression of free-thought caused by extremism and intolerance.

Debate

Khudi organizes conferences and workshops on varying themes around the country, inviting people from disparate backgrounds to foster a culture of healthy discussion and debate.

Mobilise

Khudi takes practical action to improve conditions in Pakistan and has plans to organise various initiatives frequently. A merchandise scheme is being set up to provide assistance to the affectees and survivors of terrorism in Pakistan.

Supporters

Khudi’s supporters are activists, entrepreneurs, artistes and students.

References

  1. ↑ "Central Executive Committee". Khudi Pakistan.
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