Issue Briefs

From Protest to Power: Can JNP reshape Bangladesh’s Political Future?
The Jatiya Nagorik Party (JNP)— born out of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) movement, that steered the July 2024 uprising in Bangladesh— is seeking to break the decades-long dominance of the Awami League and BNP, and advocating for a Second Republic through constitutional reform and centrist, pluralist governance. As it navigates entrenched power structures and competing opposition forces, it faces both great promise and uncertain challenges in its quest to reshape the nation’s political future.
Indonesia’s Balancing Act : Between Contestation and Cooperation with China
Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy, balances economic ties with China while asserting its sovereignty amid tensions in the South China Sea. China's maritime claims and illegal fishing in Indonesia's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the....
Impact of Pakistan’s Internal Dynamics on China-Pakistan Cooperation
The Issue Brief examines how Pakistan’s internal dynamics impact its cooperation with China, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), launched in 2015. It traces the evolution of Sino-Pak relations, highlighting their strategic....


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Understanding Kargil’s Iran Connection
Zainab Akhter
Deeply rooted in 15th-century missionary history , Kargil has religious and cultural ties with Iran. The recent spontaneous popular response to Ayatollah Khamenei’s death shows the abiding spiritual and political contact between the people of Kargil and Iran.
A Remarkable Reset in India-Bangladesh Ties: The Pragmatism of Tariq Rahman
Imran Khurshid
From strategic drift to a cautious reset, India–Bangladesh ties are entering a new phase after a turbulent period. Tariq Rahman’s leadership is redefining bilateral engagement through pragmatism, balance, and renewed trust.
The Depth of Distrust: Airstrikes in Afghanistan will not make Pakistan Secure
Imran Khurshid
Cross-border attacks and hostile narratives are deepening mistrust between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Only diplomacy and respect for sovereignty can prevent further conflict.
Rundown to the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly Elections 2026: An Analysis
Zainab Akhter
Gilgit-Baltistan’s 2026 elections may face delays until October due to harsh weather and budgetary constraints. The caretaker administration may see extended powers amidst rising local political movements.