ADVOCACY ROLE OF THINK-TANKS: A CASE STUDY OF POST-PULWAMA INCIDENT AND IMPACT ON INDIA- PAKISTAN RELATIONS”

Abstract

In democratic societies , think-tanks are seen as organizations that promote research , discussion on vital issues concerning public interest and play pivotal role as advocacy forums in order to guide the state and concerned stakeholders on how to react to a particular situation and pursue a policy which is reflective of public aspirations and national interests. In Pakistan, the think-tank culture is slowly developing which shows an increased interest among individuals to sit down and discuss matters which concern well-being of the state and the people and give recommendations for future actions. Think-tanks in Pakistan show vital interest in national security and defense matters. The fall out between India and Pakistan in aftermath of Pulwama incident in early 2019 brought the two countries at brink of war. This research study will focus towards the stance adopted by think-tanks towards this situation, how they view the response adopted by Govt. of Pakistan, which country was successful in propagating its narrative, role of international community and lastly what impact it has left on ever deteriorating relations between India and Pakistan.