Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 05/2012

Fixing Pakistan's Civil-Military Imbalance: A Dangerous Temptation

Moeed Yusuf

May 2012

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

This report focuses on one of the central debates on Pakistan in Washington: how to deal with this troubled and troubling ally in the months and years ahead. While views are divided, the rising frustrations with Pakistan have led many to lose patience and seek a stern response from the U.S. The author, USIP’s South Asia adviser, addresses a misconception regarding Pakistan’s civil-military relationship and the potential for the U.S. to make this the basis of engagement with Pakistan.