Problems and prospects for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)

Abstract

AbstractThe South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established to enlighten self‐interest based on a common desire to supersede conflict with cooperation, to displace mistrust with harmony, and to eradicate poverty with economic integration in this region. Nonetheless, it could not achieve these goals completely due to a lack of cooperation among member states. Specifically, SAARC has been crippled by the shadow of power politics between two nuclear powers: India and Pakistan. Its agendas, policies, and programs have remained unfulfilled as a result. The prospect of the rejuvenation of SAARC is not a Herculean matter. It could be achieved by introducing new ideas and plans; that is, restructuring within it or expanding its membership. In this regard, this article argues that SAARC can be rejuvenated by including China as a full member. China's presence in SAARC would maintain a balance of power in this region, it would also boost the South Asian economy through trade, investment, and infrastructural development.Related ArticlesHuang, Xiaoming. 2007. “Do Asian Values Matter—for an East Asian Community?” Politics & Policy 35(1): 154–61. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00052.xLevine, Steven. 2007. “Asian Values and the Asia Pacific Community: Shared Interests and Common Concerns.” Politics & Policy 35(1): 102–35. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00050.xRavi, Chaitanya. 2021. “The 1971 Bangladesh War and Policy Lessons for Climate Refugee Management in South Asia.” Politics & Policy 49(1): 248–74. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12392