Issue Briefs

Widening gulf between Pakistan and AJK
Although most of the demands have been accepted― of course, not before securitizing the political issue by deploying FC, Rangers along with police to use force against the protesters― the people of AJK are unlikely to forget the ordeal they have had to pass through, for the last more than six months, which has certainly steeled their nerves.
National Report by China in the 45th UPR Session: Hiding More than it Reveals
China’s report on human rights in the 45th session of the UPR on 23 January 2024 has drawn the attention of human rights activists worldwide. It has painted a rosy picture of the human rights situation within China.


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BNP's India Policy: Shifting Towards Pragmatism?
M.A. Hossain
BNP’s return to power forces a strategic rethink of its India policy. Geography, economic interdependence, and security realities push the party toward pragmatism over rhetoric in managing its most consequential bilateral relationship.
Resetting the Equation with a BNP Led Bangladesh: India’s Strategic Dilemmas
Ankita Sanyal
Bangladesh’s historic BNP victory reshapes Dhaka–Delhi dynamics. This analysis explores shifting rhetoric, water disputes, China’s growing role, and whether pragmatic engagement can stabilise ties in a post‑Hasina political landscape.
Bangladesh’s Political Reset and the Road Ahead
Smruti S. Pattanaik
Bangladesh’s 13th Parliamentary Election restores credibility of the multiparty system and coincides with a decisive referendum on constitutional reforms. With a commanding majority, the BNP now faces high expectations at home and complex regional challenges, especially in managing India ties, economic pressures and youth aspirations.