When Learning Turns to Lawlessness: Socio-Economic, Political, and Institutional Drivers of Campus Crime in Tehsil Adenzai, Pakistan

Campus crime is an increasingly pressing issue globally, driven by socio-economic, political, and institutional factors that undermine educational environments. In Pakistan, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions such as Tehsil Adenzai, District Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the issue is compounded by weak institutional mechanisms, limited security infrastructure, and socio-political influences. This study aimed to explore the underlying drivers of campus crime and the lived experiences of stakeholders in higher educational institutions in Tehsil Adenzai. Adopting a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected from 30 purposively selected participants, including students, faculty members, administrative staff, and law enforcement officials, using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase method, generating seven key themes: socio-economic deprivation, political interference, inadequate security infrastructure, institutional governance gaps, peer influence and drug culture, lack of counseling and psychological support, and ineffective law enforcement collaboration. Findings revealed that campus crime is perpetuated by a combination of systemic governance failures, social inequities, and external political pressures, with participants highlighting both personal and institutional vulnerabilities. The study concludes that addressing campus crime requires a multi-pronged strategy involving improved campus security systems, strengthened governance, political neutrality in institutional affairs, and comprehensive student counseling programs. Policy recommendations include establishing campus safety committees, fostering law enforcement–institutional collaboration, and implementing targeted awareness campaigns to promote non-violent conflict resolution.