In Pakistan, a startup wants to end extremism and violence through comics

Pakistan is currently struggling with issues of violent extremism and intolerance. Home grown militancy and terror attacks have caused the deaths of 58,000 people since 2003, with losses to the economy estimated at US$100 billion. While the rate of attacks has decreased since the army began a military operation to flush out terrorists, the security situation remains precarious.

Some analysts believe issues of terrorism and militancy can only be overcome with a longer-term effort to win ‘hearts and minds.’ A military campaign is not the sole answer. This message clearly resonates with Muhammad Qasim and Hassan Aftab, co-founders of Harbinger Comix, a startup that wants to inspire tolerance and peace in Pakistani society.

“While I am horrified by extremism, I believe there is still hope,” says Qasim, who is a graduate in history. “I am confident that my comics can have far-reaching social impact and convince citizens to do all they can to fight this menace.”

The founders claim the inspiration for their venture stems not only from extremism in their home country, but also global attacks on free speech, such as the Charlie Hebdo massacre. Both are liberal arts graduates, and predisposed towards analyzing and solving social issues. After encouragement from their university professor, they dived straight in.

The first issue of their comic ‘Shaheen’, narrates in graphic detail the harrowing incident of the Peshawar school massacre earlier this year. Qasim claims this is a story line they want to expand on, with the unreleased second issue picking up the story ten years later. Eventually, the comics will introduce a superhero whose aim is to transform society.

“Expressing yourself only through text is unlikely to have long-lasting impact,” explains Qasim. “Readers can engage with images much better, and help spread the message faster. Comics are an amazing tool.”

However, don’t expect the comics to be light-hearted. Qasim says his favorite comic book character is ‘The Punisher’, a morbid, brutal, and psychologically-disturbed vigilante assassin seeking revenge for his murdered family.

For now, all the comics are free to access and download online. The startup is focusing on expanding its user base and reaching a wider audience, and lesser on monetization plans. Future plans include introducing a mobile app, as well as a full-length animated film. Harbinger Comix is currently incubated the LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship, which Qasim says has been ‘integral’ in helping them with strategy and charting their future course.