Kurram’s Peace Agenda: A Hybrid Governance Model Integrating Traditional Leadership, NGOs, and State Institutions for Long-Term Stability

Abstract

This study investigates the persistent sectarian violence in Kurram District, Pakistan, a region historically marked by political exclusion, sectarian divides, and geopolitical interference. Despite numerous failed peace efforts, primarily focused on military interventions or externally imposed agreements, Kurram continues to face deep-rooted conflict. This research employs a multi-theoretical framework—incorporating Structural Violence, Constructivism, Realism, and Conflict Transformation—to assess the causes of the conflict and propose a hybrid governance model for sustainable peace. The Kurram Integrated Peace Architecture (KIPA) model integrates traditional governance mechanisms, such as the Jirga, with formal state institutions and the support of NGOs. Key components of KIPA include Hybrid Dispute Resolution Councils (HDRCs), Women and Youth Peace Committees (WYPCs), Peace Infrastructure Hubs (PIHs), and a Real-time Monitoring Dashboard (PRD), addressing sectarian violence, political exclusion, and socio-economic deprivation. Through qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with local leaders, the study highlights the need for inclusive governance and socio-economic development in fostering long-term peace. The findings offer practical policy recommendations for local, national, and international peacebuilding actors, emphasizing the integration of local and state-driven peace processes. This model not only offers a theoretical advancement in hybrid governance but also proposes actionable strategies for conflict resolution in marginalized, militarized regions.