Militancy Conflicts and Displacement in Swat Valley of Pakistan: Analysis of Transformation of Social and Cultural Network
Noor Elahi
Abstract
The paper examines the impacts of militancy conflict and internal displacement (2008-2009) on social and
cultural system of the people of Swat valley, Pakistan. The research analyze that how militancy conflict and
displacement radically changed the functioning of socio-cultural system of pukhtoonwali (a code of ethics), such
as Jirga (Council of elders), hospitality and Hujra (place of guest) which in past maintainedpeace and harmony
in society through their social networks. The conflict and internal displacement affected the social fabric in terms
of social relations, cooperation, trust and interactions between various ethnic and social groups. However,
consequences of conflict and internal displacement encouraged men and women of different social classes to
stand up for their rights and develop new social networks. Nevertheless, the paper argues that the social and
cultural system be reconsidered in terms of its possible contribution to peace and development in conflict affected
societies.
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