Pakistan's fractured unity

What is driving the ongoing violence and prejudice against the country's minorities?


Last week, an area in Peshawar frequented by Shia Muslims was targeted by a suicide bomber. The attack took place a few hours after peace negotiations were initially postponed between the government and the Taliban. At least eight people were killed and 50 injured. This is the most recent incident of violence against Pakistan's estimated 4.5 million-strong population of religious minorities.

Pakistanis online reacted with anger, condemning the government for considering peace talks with the Taliban and accusing it of not doing enough to protect the Shia minority. Pakistan's Shia Muslims make up 20 per cent of the entire population.