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.
No, Sri Lanka Isn’t North Korea
By Taylor Dibbert
A misguided campaign gains traction.
Making Room for Indian States in Foreign Policy
By Tridivesh Singh Maini
If India wants its states to help boost ties with neighbors, the central government needs to move beyond mere slogans.
Indian Ocean Rim Association Concludes First-Ever Leaders' Summit
By Ankit Panda
Is the Indian Ocean Rim Association looking to raise its profile?
Why India Must Refrain From a Water War With Pakistan
By Muhammad Daim Fazil
Threatening Pakistan's water supply will have a negative impact on India and all of South Asia.
In Afghanistan, Hospitals Sit on the Front Lines of Conflict
By Catherine Putz
A new report finds Afghan government forces complicit in violence against hospitals and medical staff.
Why Pakistan's Long-Awaited National Census Matters
By Umair Jamal
Pakistan has had to wait nearly 20 years for a national census.
The Myth of Secular India
By Saddam Hussein
India claims a secular identity, but has a long history of oppressing religious minorities.
India's Early 2017 State Elections: What You Need to Know
By Padmapriya Govindarajan
Seven Indian states go to the polls this year. The stakes are high for Indian politics.
Pakistan, Islamism, and the Fear of Afghan Nationalism
By Ahmad Bilal Khalil
Pakistan's long history of undermining Afghan and Pashtun nationalism and promoting pan-Islamism instead.
Why India Should Help Shape Norms for Outer Space Activities
By Bhavani Castro
India can promote the creation of a more comprehensive regime for the use of outer space in a variety of ways.
Sri Lanka: Back in the Spotlight at the Human Rights Council
By Taylor Dibbert
Colombo’s performance comes under heightened scrutiny.
Will Saudi Arabia Purchase an Entire Atoll From the Maldives?
By Ankit Panda
The bilateral relationship between Male and Riyadh hasn't received too much attention to date, but is quickly growing.