Blog
The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
India’s Self-Inflicted Foreign Policy Challenges in 2020
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
While the Modi government secured some notable gains during its time in office thus far, challenges lie ahead this year and beyond.
The BJP and the Opposition in India: Between Narrative and Numbers
By Niranjan Marjani
Numbers alone can’t keep the BJP out of power; a compelling alternative narrative is needed.
Sri Lanka President Urges Limit on Minority Political Power
By Associated Press
Sinhala nationalists say minority politicians hold the governments ransom to promote their racial agendas, undermining the status of the Sinhalese.
How the Kuala Lumpur Summit Complicates India’s Gulf Relations
By Mohammed Sinan Siyech
The declaration of a special OIC meeting on Kashmir at the behest of Pakistan demonstrated that the platform has indirectly affected India-Gulf ties.
Taliban Target Afghan Security Forces, Killing 26
By Associated Press
The latest Taliban attacks underscore that the insurgents are at their strongest point since the beginning of the 18-year war.
Does India Gain Anything From the Shanghai Cooperation Organization?
By Krzysztof Iwanek
Any benefits from the SCO are cancelled out by the presence of China and Pakistan.
A Rock and a Hard Place: Nepal’s 2019 Diplomacy in Review
By Kamal Dev Bhattarai
Over the past year, Nepal has been in a tight spot as it seeks to balance between major powers.
40 Years After His Death, Hafizullah Amin Casts a Long Shadow in Afghanistan
By Christopher Solomon
40 years ago, the Soviet Union eliminated a communist rival from power in Afghanistan. Ever since, the country has prodded through a history of violence and political uncertainty.
Five Key Developments in South Asia in the 2010s—and What They Mean for the 2020s
By Michael Kugelman
A look at some of the major events in the region over the past decade and what they might mean for the decade ahead.
Taliban Council Agrees to Ceasefire in Afghanistan
By Associated Press
The U.S. and Taliban appear tantalizingly close to an agreement, again.
Is Nepal’s New Airport Dream an Environmental Nightmare?
By Kamal Dev Bhattarai
Nepal’s Supreme Court halted the construction of a new international airport as it considers a protest from environmental groups.
Where Does the Expected Clash of Institutions Leave Pakistan?
By Umair Jamal
Tensions are building within Pakistan's institutions over several issues, including the extension of the Army Chief’s tenure.