ISLAMABAD: The researchers, academics, and practitioners gathered on Wednesday to form the country’s first-ever anthropological body, aiming to steer public policy and development planning.

The newly established Pakistan Anthropological Association (PAA) will focus on utilising targeted research to address critical national challenges, particularly in cultural heritage, health, education, migration, and social inclusion.

The association, comprising more than 60 founding members, aims to unite anthropologists on a common platform to advance the teaching, research, and professional practice of the discipline while leveraging anthropological knowledge to address the country’s social, cultural, and development priorities.

The platform also intends to provide data-driven insights for climate adaptation and community development strategies.

The executive council of the body held its first meeting here on Wednesday under the leadership of the President of PAA, Dr Syed Anwar Iqbal.

Speaking to the participants, the president described its establishment as a major milestone in the development of anthropology in Pakistan.

He said Pakistan’s remarkable cultural, linguistic, ethnic and regional diversity makes anthropology particularly relevant to understanding society and addressing the country’s evolving challenges.

Anthropological knowledge, he added, could help institutions better understand diverse communities and respond more effectively to their needs and priorities.

Published in Dawn, October 29th, 2026