Students' unions are student run organizations whose purpose is to represent students both within the institution and externally, on local and national issues. Student unions are also responsible for providing a variety of services to students. Some student unions are politicized bodies, and often serve as a training ground for aspiring politicians. They are seen as crucial to promoting democratic culture and progressive values, while they are also criticized for breeding violence.
Student unions were banned in Pakistan by General Zia-ul-Haq's government in 1984.