Abstract
This research paper critically analyses Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategies adopted by two successive government from 2001 to 2013 with one happening to be military government while the other being the democratic setup. The main objectives of the study are to identify underlying causes of terrorism and conduct an ex-post evaluation of the performance of the two governments to see their progress towards socio-economic development of masses as a means to fight terrorism in the society. The study used mixed method and is based on survey as well as interviews. Survey was conducted using non-probability sampling method due to financial and time constraints. Survey data was collected, using a closed-ended questionnaire, from 395 respondents spread over all administrative units of the country with representation of male and female as well as various segments of society. Interviews were conducted, using an open-ended questionnaire, from experts with a range of disciplines. According to the some of the findings of the study, socio-economic development of the masses, or lack thereof, is one of the crucial factors in rating counter-terrorism strategies being effective or otherwise. The study also made specific, doable and pertinent recommendations.