Shi`a Pajoohi

Shi`a Pajoohi

Contemporary Challenges of Shi'a Muslims in Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Muhammad Alyas Abdy 1
Farman Ali Saeedy 2
Muhammad Ya'qub Bashvy 3
1 PhD Candidate in Shi'a Studies, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
2 Assistant Professor of the History Department, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran
3 Assistant Professor of the Interpretation Department, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran
Abstract
Gilgit-Baltistan, located in northeastern Pakistan, is predominantly inhabited by Shi'a Muslims. The region is economically strategic and possesses significant potential in cultural, educational, social, and political domains, which can be exploited for the development of the Shi'a community. Utilizing these capacities could facilitate the meaningful participation of Shi'a Muslims in local governance structures and assist them in addressing and improving political, economic, and social issues. However, the region faces a range of multifaceted challenges, including those in the political, cultural, educational, and economic spheres. Some of these challenges stem from internal issues, such as low literacy rates, a shortage of higher education institutions, and widespread poverty. External factors, including a lack of cohesion in political relations among Shi'a groups, also contribute to these difficulties. Nevertheless, through comprehensive planning and thoughtful strategies, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for the growth and prosperity of the Shi'a community in the region. Accordingly, the central question of this research is: What are the cultural, educational, political, social, and economic challenges facing the Shi'a Muslims of Gilgit-Baltistan, and what strategies can be adopted to address them? Employing a descriptive-analytical approach and field research methods, this study aims to examine these challenges and propose effective solutions for improving the conditions of the Shi'a community in the region. Suggested strategies include establishing schools, cultural and educational centers, founding universities, developing the tourism industry, creating production units and factories, and utilizing the water resources of the Indus River for the revival of agricultural lands.
Keywords
Shi‘i Studies
Geography of Shi‘ism
Shi'a Muslims
Gilgit-Baltistan
Subjects
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Shi`a Pajoohi
Volume 11, Issue 28 - Serial Number 28
September 2025
Pages 155-182