As Global and Regional Instability Rises, Sikhs Must Clearly Establish Their Processes

As instability rises across the world, communities and nations are being forced to rethink their political strategies and decision-making structures. From the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war to the rapidly escalating US-Israel–Iran conflict in West Asia, and the emerging Pakistan–Afghanistan military confrontation, multiple conflicts are reshaping the global geopolitical landscape and increasing uncertainty across regions.

In this context of growing global and regional instability, Sikhs must clearly establish processes for collective decision-making and evolving joint leadership.

In this interview with journalist Mandeep Singh, Sikh Siyasat editor Parmjeet Singh Gazi argues that wider sections of the Sikh community need to build consensus on reviving the Panth’s historic traditions of collective decision-making and institutional leadership. He also stresses the need for a forward-looking political document that can guide Sikh efforts to uphold their right to political self-determination in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.

The discussion also addresses how past controversies and old issues are repeatedly raised to undermine the credibility of Panthic personalities and derail efforts toward unity and institutional revival. While such contentious matters may eventually need to be addressed, the priority should be to first build broad consensus on future processes, institutions, and collective leadership structures.

Once a shared framework for moving forward is established, past issues can be addressed within that agreed process, ensuring that they do not obstruct the Khalsa Panth’s long-term political direction