1st Int'l Criminology Conference inaugurated at University of Peshawar

The inaugural session of the 1st International Criminology Conference commenced on August 6, 2025, at the scenic Bara Gali Summer Campus of the University of Peshawar, bringing together renowned academicians, legal experts, and professionals from across Pakistan to deliberate on the evolving challenges in the criminal justice system.

Dr. Basharat Hussain, Chairman, Department of Criminology, welcomed the guests, presenters, and participants. In his address, he highlighted the theme of the conference and underscored the need for reforms in Pakistan’s criminal justice system, still deeply rooted in colonial-era British laws.

Prof. Dr. Sajjad Ahmad appreciated the Department of Criminology for spearheading the initiative and emphasized the conference’s potential to bridge the gap between academia and the justice sector.

Prof. Muhammad Iqbal highlighted the role of educators in shaping societal values and emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration—especially with the Departments of Peace & Conflict Studies and Law—to bring impactful change.

Mr. Babar Bashir stressed that criminal justice reform is a collective responsibility, not limited to a single institution. He noted the lack of civil society engagement in holding the system accountable and called for a more integrated approach.

The Honourable Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court, Justice Syed Muhammad Attique Shah, served as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he pointed out systemic flaws in the investigation process that often lead to grave injustices. Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., he reminded the audience: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

Justice Shah emphasized that justice is a shared responsibility—among victims, law enforcement, and the judiciary—and stressed the role of education in promoting fairness. He advocated for accountability over leniency in the justice system.

The inaugural session concluded with a shield distribution ceremony, where the Honourable Chief Justice presented shields to distinguished speakers.

In turn, Prof. Dr. Basharat Hussain, Prof. Dr. Sajjad Ahmad, and Prof. Muhammad Iqbal presented a commemorative shield to the Honourable Chief Justice.

Session 1

Chair: Dr. Syed Minhaj ul Hassan

Moderator: Dr. Basharat Hussain

Presenters: Dr. Asfandyar Durrani, Dr. Zaheer Abbas, Ms. Palwasha Ayaz Khan, Dr. Asim Muneeb Khan

Session 2

Chair: Dr. Jamil Ahmad Chitrali

Moderator: Dr. Javeria Raza

Presenters: Mr. Haq Nawaz, Mr. Muhammad Ali Rana, Dr. Asim Muneeb Khan, Dr. Sajjad Hussain, Dr. Amir Alam

Session 3

Chair: Dr. Sajjad Ahmad

Moderator: Dr. Muhammad Ibrar

Each session concluded with group photographs of the presenters and session chairs to commemorate the contributions of the scholars.

Concluding Activity

The first day of the conference concluded with a leisure excursion to Nathiagali Bazaar, allowing participants to network informally and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.