Politics of Idealism and Policy of Realism: A Stakeholder’s Perspective of Gaps in National Security Policy of Pakistan 2022-2026

Abstract

This paper seeks to uncover important elements of Pakistan's National Security Policy 2022–2026, by contrasting it with the policies of the United States and India. Identifying gaps aid help in determining prospective changes. This study examines the national security issues like civil-military interactions, political stability, external threats, regional isolation, and the necessity of a geo-economic focus for improved human security Open- ended, semi-structured questions are employed in the qualitative method using snowball sampling reach out reticent experts. Findings reveals that political governments carry rhetoric of idealism but state policy remains embroiled with realism. Critical issues such as Kashmir, misuse of Islamic ideology fueling extremism, and inclusive stakeholder engagement remain inadequately addressed. Security institutions dominate policymaking, sidelining diplomatic and intellectual contributions. The NSP neglects Pakistan’s ideological underpinnings and public perspectives. The paper advocates a shift toward a people-centered approach that integrates societal, economic, and administrative dimensions, aligning security with broader national development goals