Diplomatic Engagement of Pakistan in Muslim-World Conflicts: Assessing the Opportunities and Constraints of Regional Peacebuilding (2001-2024)

The present research explores the diplomatic engagement of Pakistan in conflicts within Muslim-world during post-9/11 era (2001–2024) with a special attention to the opportunity and constraints affecting its efforts for regional peacebuilding. Pakistan has often been seen as an agent of promoting unity amongst Muslims and could act as an actor to help resolve tensions within the region. Their mediation has had mixed results depending on the conflict. This research explores Pakistan's mediation in 5 different conflicts: Afghanistan Peace Process, Saudi Arabia-Iran Rivalry, Qatar Diplomatic Crisis, Yemen Conflict, Palestine-Israel Dispute through conducting a qualitative comparative case study. The data was collected using qualitative document analysis. Sources used were official documents, international treaties, academic work, policy documents and other secondary sources. Middle power diplomacy, ripeness theory and constructivism were used to understand the different outcomes of diplomacy that occurred in Pakistan. Findings show that Pakistan had their most impactful diplomatic contribution when in Afghanistan due to having a unique relationship with the Taliban and positive negotiating conditions. In some situations, the lack of diplomatic power, lack of favourable negotiation circumstances, and issues with neutrality have hindered their influence. However, Pakistan always remained dedicated to promoting the unity of Muslims and engaging in multilateral diplomacy. In conclusion, regional peace building can be effective if the facilitator is using the correct diplomatic tactics, has leverage, is being used at the right time, and the state they are using is credible.