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Enduring and Emerging Issues in South Asian Security: A Comprehensive Analysis

Milton Bell

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Enduring and Emerging Issues in South Asian Security: Essays in Honor of Stephen Philip Cohen

by Dinshaw Mistry

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	234 pages

South Asia, a region encompassing India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and the Maldives, is characterized by both historical rivalries and aspirations for regional cooperation. However, the region faces a complex array of security challenges that have persisted for decades and continue to evolve in the 21st century.

Enduring Issues

Terrorism and Extremism

Terrorism and extremism have plagued South Asia for decades, with groups like Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and Lashkar-e-Taiba perpetrating numerous attacks that have claimed countless lives. These groups exploit social, economic, and political grievances to radicalize individuals and fuel violence.

Nuclear Proliferation

India and Pakistan possess nuclear weapons, and their rivalry has heightened concerns about nuclear proliferation. The risk of a nuclear exchange remains a major threat to regional and global security.

Water Disputes

South Asia is home to some of the world's largest rivers, but the distribution of water resources is uneven. Disputes over water rights and dam construction have led to tensions between India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Emerging Issues

Climate Change

Climate change is emerging as a significant security threat in South Asia. Melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events are displacing populations, disrupting livelihoods, and exacerbating social and political instability.

Maritime Security

The Indian Ocean is a critical waterway for global trade and energy supply. Piracy, drug trafficking, and maritime terrorism pose challenges to maritime security in South Asia, requiring enhanced cooperation among coastal states.

Economic Disparities

South Asia is home to some of the world's poorest countries. Economic disparities within and between nations can fuel social unrest, political instability, and migration flows.

Implications for Regional Security

The enduring and emerging security issues in South Asia have profound implications for regional stability:

Threat to Human Security: Terrorism, extremism, and climate change directly impact the well-being of millions of people in South Asia.
Destabilization of States: Prolonged conflicts and internal security challenges can weaken governments and undermine state institutions.
Heightened Regional Tensions: Disputes over water, nuclear proliferation, and other issues can escalate into armed conflict and jeopardize regional cooperation.
Global Consequences: South Asian security issues can have spillover effects on neighboring regions and the wider world, such as terrorism, refugees, and economic disruptions.

The enduring and emerging security challenges in South Asia demand a multifaceted approach that addresses both the root causes and the manifestations of these issues. Regional cooperation, economic development, and international support are crucial to promote stability, prevent conflict, and ensure a secure and prosperous future for South Asia.

Enduring and Emerging Issues in South Asian Security: Essays in Honor of Stephen Philip Cohen

by Dinshaw Mistry

4 out of 5