Pakistan’s alarming rank on Global Terrorism Index 2025: A nation battling persistent threats

Pakistan’s ranking as the second-most affected country on the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025 underscores the persistent threat of terrorism within its borders. 

Despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts and security operations, the country remains vulnerable to violent extremism, militancy, and insurgent activities. 

This ranking reflects the challenges Pakistan continues to face, impacting its internal stability, economic growth, and international standing.

Global Terrorism Index

The Global Terrorism Index (GTI), compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), assesses the impact of terrorism worldwide by analyzing trends in attacks, fatalities, injuries, and property damage. 

The ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of terrorist activities, their intensity, and their long-term consequences.

Pakistan’s position on the GTI 2025 is a result of an increase in terrorist incidents, casualties, and the resurgence of militant groups, particularly in its border regions. 

Despite significant counterterrorism operations, insurgents continue to exploit security gaps, leading to persistent instability.

One of the primary reasons for Pakistan’s worsening security situation is the resurgence of militant groups, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch separatist organizations, and Islamic State-affiliated factions. 

The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in 2021 led to a power vacuum that allowed militant organisations to regroup and launch cross-border attacks into Pakistan.

The evolving situation in Afghanistan has had a direct impact on Pakistan’s security. 

The regime change in Afghanistan has emboldened militant groups, leading to increased cross-border attacks. 

The porous Pakistan-Afghanistan border remains a hotbed for terrorist infiltration, making counterterrorism efforts more complex.

Political instability has hampered Pakistan’s ability to effectively combat terrorism. 

Frequent government changes, civil-military tensions, and internal conflicts have diverted focus from long-term security strategies. The lack of a consistent counterterrorism policy weakens efforts to address the root causes of extremism.

Pakistan’s economic crisis, characterised by high inflation, unemployment, and stagnant growth, has created conditions conducive to radicalisation. 

Financial hardship and lack of economic opportunities drive vulnerable populations, particularly youth, toward extremist ideologies. 

Additionally, inadequate education and the proliferation of extremist narratives contribute to the radicalisation of segments of society.

Despite significant improvements in counterterrorism capacity, Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies continue to face challenges in intelligence gathering, coordination, and operational execution. 

Militant groups have adapted their strategies, making it difficult for security forces to preempt attacks effectively.

Pakistan continues to experience sectarian violence, with extremist groups targeting religious minorities, Shia communities, and Sufi shrines. 

Ethnic tensions, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, fuel separatist insurgencies, further complicating the security landscape.

Implications of the ranking

Pakistan’s high ranking on the GTI has severe economic repercussions. 

Foreign investment is deterred due to security concerns, and industries suffer from instability. 

The tourism sector, which has shown signs of growth in recent years, faces setbacks due to the perception of Pakistan as a high-risk destination.

A poor ranking on the GTI affects Pakistan’s global reputation. Countries and international organisations may impose travel advisories, sanctions, or restrictions on aid and trade. 

Additionally, Pakistan’s efforts to remove itself from international financial watchlists, such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), are complicated by ongoing security issues.

The persistent threat of terrorism has a profound impact on Pakistani society. 

Thousands of civilians and security personnel have lost their lives in terrorist attacks over the years. 

Fear and insecurity disrupt daily life, affecting education, healthcare, and overall social stability. The psychological impact of living under the constant threat of violence further exacerbates social challenges.

Counter measures

Pakistan’s military has conducted extensive counterterrorism operations to dismantle militant networks. While these efforts have achieved significant success, terrorist groups continue to adapt and regroup.

To combat cross-border terrorism, Pakistan has fortified its border with Afghanistan, installing fencing and increasing patrols. 

However, border management remains a complex issue requiring continued cooperation with Afghan authorities and international stakeholders.

Pakistan introduced the National Action Plan (NAP) in 2014 to counter terrorism and extremism. 

While some progress has been made, gaps remain in its full implementation, particularly in controlling hate speech, regulating madrassas, and curbing terror financing.

Pakistan’s ranking as the second-most affected country on the Global Terrorism Index 2025 is a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges it faces. 

While military operations and security measures have yielded results, deeper structural reforms, regional cooperation, and socioeconomic initiatives are needed to effectively combat terrorism in the long run.

According to experts, the path forward requires a multi-faceted approach that combines security operations with governance reforms, economic development, and efforts to counter radicalisation.  Only through sustained and comprehensive action can Pakistan improve its security landscape, restore investor confidence, and enhance its global standing, they said.