Policy Recommendations for Negotiations with US Avoiding Civil War The Islamic Republic of Pakistan, in order to avoid the continued escalation of insurgent violence and threat of civil war, must seek out increased financial support from the United States (US) for use in programs aimed at economic growth and anti-corruption. Counter-Insurgency Department Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Intelligence indicates that we are nearing the brink of total civil war. According to recent evidence, a well-financed and administratively competent government coupled with greater economic opportunities for the general public, will better prevent the outbreak of civil war than increased counter-insurgency (CI) operations which may be prone to corruption.

Risk of Civil War, Great Mountainous Terrain Insurgent Insurgent Bin Laden Leading experts in the field of insurgency and civil war have revealed a number of causal characteristics of civil war, many of which are attributable to Pakistan. These insurgents, especially in the FATA, also are fueled by a knowledge of the local population superior to that of Pakistan's military. This knowledge enables them to operate in rough terrain which serves as a safe haven untouchable by the government. Insurgent

Risk of Civil War, Great Mountainous Terrain Dismal Per Capita Income Political Instability Pakistan's per capita income is currently about $1,051 and has fallen since last year, according to Finance Advisor Hafeez Sheikh. This is most likely a driving factor behind the increase in insurgents as young males who cannot find jobs turn to the more profitable life of an insurgent. Pak Tribune Poltical instability/corruption: Indications of corruption, especially within the military, also point to the weakness of our existing CI strategy. Illegal practices such as extrajudicial killings are undermining the legitimacy of the government while encouraging more to join the insurgent ranks.

Greater Funding for: Employment Opportunities Anti-Corruption Additonal funding is required to development and implement job creation programs. Greater employment opportunities will turn would-be insurgents into productive members of society. Corruption is rampant. Low-paid public servants find it not only profitable but necessary to accept bribes in order to support their predominantly large families. The increase of wages in select sectors such as law enforcement and increased reciprocity for fraud and bribery will most likely decrease the amount of corruption.

Ultimately, a more just perception of Pakistan authorities will put our country on the path to political stability. Path to Stability