Author: Wahidullah Momand
The term “nation” is derived from the Arabic word “Millat,” which refers to paths or methods. This term’s root can be traced back to “Natio” from ancient Roman culture, where it originally denoted birth, a meaning distinct from its current usage. Today, the concept of a nation encompasses shared connections, beliefs, ideologies, and social bonds among people who are united politically, legally, and spiritually.
There are two main theories regarding the formation of a nation. The first is the objective theory of nationhood, which emphasizes the role of ethnic, racial, linguistic, religious, and geographical ideologies in the creation of a nation. However, many scholars argue against this perspective, highlighting that nations often consist of diverse languages, races, and religions. The second is the subjective theory of nation-building, which posits that the feeling of unity and belief in shared goals among individuals transcends racial, linguistic, and religious divisions. This collective sense of belonging fosters the common good and societal welfare.
Nation-building, or “Nation Building,” refers to the process of establishing a unified state with territorial integrity, sovereignty, a political system, a national currency, social systems, and the consolidation of national values and identities. This concept involves fostering a sense of unity among various ethnic and regional groups, ensuring equal rights for all citizens, and facilitating economic prosperity.
Some scholars equate nation-building with state-building, referring to the process by which citizens’ fundamental rights are secured through the separation of powers: legislative, executive, and judicial. Nation-building thus involves leveraging all governmental resources to maintain national cohesion in the long term. For effective nation-building, governments must implement campaigns and policies that promote social values and national economic interests.
Critical components of nation-building include a defined territory, a cohesive populace, a functional government, legal structures, family systems, economic and educational institutions, judicial frameworks, and diplomatic relations with other nations. While some nations have already been established, others, particularly those gaining independence or emerging from colonialism, require a concerted effort to build a national identity and shared values.
It is essential to prevent the spread of disdain and humiliation. Every individual, regardless of language, region, or ideology, must be treated with equal respect under the law. No one has the right to consider themselves superior to others. For unity, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a renowned philosopher, argued that “All men are born free and equal in dignity; no one has the right to govern over others.” He contended that government should serve as a means of maintaining public order and peace among citizens. Similarly, the distinguished philosopher John Locke stated, “The state is established by humans for the purpose of preserving freedom, peace, and security, ensuring the protection of all rights.”
This emphasizes that the state is responsible for public order, security, and meeting the legal needs of its citizens. Its primary goal is to ensure the well-being and convenience of the populace. Governments formed in the name of the nation must be willing to make sacrifices, uphold national values, and work toward the collective well-being. Nations must acknowledge their shared demands, promote unity across diverse ethnicities, languages, religions, and regions, and work towards the common good.
Nation-building involves not only government structures but also the active participation of the general population. All citizens must contribute to the development, progress, and unity of the nation. Respect for each other’s legal rights and adherence to the law are essential. A nation’s survival and prosperity depend on a shared sense of national objectives and the resolution of internal conflicts.
About the Author
