Eighteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

After 9/11, Pakistan opted to play a role as a front-line ally of the United States in the war against terror. Studying the objectives, strategies, and outcomes of such a policy firstly informs us about the hunting of the Al-Qaeda operatives, military operations, losing 70,000 lives, as well as extensive economic loss. Ultimately, it connects the chords with the realization of extremism in our madrasah education system, and absence of a social welfare structure. The emotional and psychological impact of such a war on the people of Pakistan is hardly discussed and rarely addressed. What is needed in a tormented society is a mindset that must not consider stakeholders as vulnerable victims, but rather transform them as agents of change. It is possible through the empowerment and inclusion of all members of society which can easily be done through art. This study, while realizing the need of lifelong education, focuses on the role of art and related activities in building up a resilient Pakistani society. It also explores the appearance of international art festivals and biennials which promotes transcultural experiences. Such an approach enables the learners to experience the cultural facilities of their own community as well as the world around them, which must promote tolerance, cultivate their creativity and personality, thus foster resilience in the face of trauma.