Writings & columns
Essays on diplomacy, governance, and a world being remade.
A curated selection of recent columns published in Dawn. Click any piece to read the full essay on dawn.com.
DiplomacyMar 1, 2026
Board of Peace
Pakistan has taken a prudent position.
Dawn
Great-power politicsFeb 15, 2026
Expanding footprint
China’s outreach contrasts with the fading US role.
Dawn
GovernanceFeb 1, 2026
Grassroots power
Why are the provinces not devolving power?
Dawn
Global orderJan 18, 2026
Fading footprint
What will a reduced global role for the US mean?
Dawn
Foreign policyJan 2026
Looking ahead
Reflections on Pakistan’s strategic horizon.
Dawn
South AsiaSep 8, 2024
Stalled dialogue
On the long pause in regional engagement.
Dawn
HistoryJun 30, 2024
What if…?
Counterfactuals from Pakistan’s diplomatic past.
Dawn
GovernanceMay 19, 2024
Good governance
On the institutional reforms Pakistan needs.
Dawn
StrategyDec 31, 2023
Battle of ideas
Why narratives matter as much as capabilities.
Dawn
SecuritySep 2023
Redefining defence
Beyond conventional notions of national security.
Dawn