Pakistan-US relations: examining sustainable bilateral cooperation via civil society collaboration

Abstract

Pakistan and the United States (US) have struggled to form mutually beneficial foreign policies that withstand volatile political phases. In the current global context, there is an urgent need for innovative and practical approaches to enrich the field of international relations, allowing policymakers to overcome diplomatic deadlocks. This research examines the potential role of a sustainable development approach with civil society organisations (CSOs) as the implementing instrument of foreign policies. Through case studies of successful CSO initiatives across economic, social, and environmental pillars, specifically covering SDGs 3, 8, 13 and 17, the study observes and empirically examines the multisectoral operations of US-based civil society in Pakistan, highlighting its comprehensive impact on the people as well as uncovering the resilient nature of civil society-led cooperation between states. The research finds that integrating civil society into foreign policy can create resilient and sustainable development-oriented bilateral relations, offering a practical strategy for enhancing collaboration and achieving sustainability. This model presents a pathway for countries to transcend transactional ties and establish lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. The study also opens doors for further research in IR to welcome the sustainable development paradigm in bilateral studies.