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.
Taliban to Take Part in ‘Intra-Afghan’ Talks in Moscow
By Kathy Gannon and Rahim Faiez
The Taliban will be talking with opposition politicians and tribal elders – but not representatives of the government in Kabul.
Pakistan’s Pashtun Rights Movement Suffers First Casualty
By Daud Khattak
A year after the PTM took shape, one of its leaders has been killed and frustration is growing.
Why Saudi Arabia Joining CPEC Matters
By Sabena Siddiqui
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, while a bilateral project, has ample space for additional partners to invest.
How India’s Indigenous Peoples Have Reacted to Formal Religion
By Parul Abrol
The interaction between formal religion and India’s Adivasi population represents a source of change.
Can the BJP Hold on to Power?
By K.S. Venkatachalam
Narendra Modi’s chances of returning to power in 2019 fall as a major poll predicts a hung parliament.
Are Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian Parties on a Terminal Decline?
By Pravin Prakash
The struggle to claim Tamil identity will redefine both Tamil nationalism and Tamil Nadu in years to come.
Don't Write Off India's Pre-Election Budget Session Just Yet
By Aman Thakker
The upcoming Indian budget session may yet see major movement on legislation. Don't count it out.
Pakistan Supreme Court Upholds Acquittal of Aasia Bibi
By Kathy Gannon
The acquittal frees Aasia Bibi to leave Pakistan, where she has come under threats from extremists.
Press Freedom Under Siege: The Jailing of a Kashmiri Journalist in India
By Adnan Bhat
In Kashmir, freedom of expression and the press are under attack by the Indian government.
A Nun’s Rape and a Priest’s Mysterious Death Jolt Catholic Church in India
By Priyanka Borpujari
Will justice be done?
Agreeing to Agree: The Afghan Peace Process Sort of Moves Forward
By Catherine Putz
U.S. envoy in charge of the quest for a peace deal in Afghanistan encouraged by recent progress, but hurdles remain.
Indian Digital Privacy in Jeopardy
By Nikhil Sud
New initiatives underway in India pose potential threats to privacy, free speech, and investment.