Criterion Quarterly

International Relations

The future of the Indus Waters Treaty

The future of the Indus Waters Treaty

The future of the Indus Waters Treaty stands at a crossroads as water sharing between India and Pakistan faces growing challenges. Climate change, shifting diplomatic priorities, and calls for treaty renegotiation threaten the stability of one of South Asia’s most successful agreements. This article explores how adapting the treaty could safeguard regional cooperation in an era of environmental stress.

read more
Kashmir: A Flashpoint

Kashmir: A Flashpoint

The Kashmir conflict remains a critical flashpoint in South Asia, with unresolved UN resolutions, human rights violations, and strained India-Pakistan relations perpetuating instability in the region. This article explores the historical roots of the dispute and its far-reaching implications for regional peace and global diplomacy.

read more
BRICS Plus – The Bold Expansion to 11 Nations that Could Transform Global Power Dynamics

BRICS Plus – The Bold Expansion to 11 Nations that Could Transform Global Power Dynamics

This article explores the evolution of BRICS from a geopolitical and economic bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, into a more expansive entity with the inclusion of six new members: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. It discusses the implications of this expansion on global politics, particularly in challenging the dominance of Western-led economic structures. The article also touches on the differing perspectives within BRICS, such as China’s and Russia’s push for rapid expansion versus India’s more cautious approach, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions.

read more
Ceasefires, Kashmir and Emerging Rivalries of Great Powers in South Asia

Ceasefires, Kashmir and Emerging Rivalries of Great Powers in South Asia

This article dives into the complexities of the Kashmir conflict and the fragile ceasefires that attempt to maintain peace in the region. It explores the great power rivalry unfolding in South Asia, analyzing how the interests of global players are impacting regional stability and reshaping alliances.

read more
Fencing Borders The Pak-Afghan Paradigm

Fencing Borders The Pak-Afghan Paradigm

This article analyzes the impact of fencing borders between Pakistan and Afghanistan, focusing on the implications for Pak-Afghan relations and border security. It discusses how this initiative affects regional stability and examines the humanitarian impact on local communities. The piece raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the fence in addressing security concerns while balancing geopolitical and social factors.

read more
United States – Gearing up for a New President (2016)

United States – Gearing up for a New President (2016)

This article examines the United States preparing for its next presidential election, analyzing the candidates and their platforms. It explores the global implications of the election, particularly in relation to the country’s foreign relations with South Asia and other key regions. The evolving political landscape in the U.S. will have far-reaching consequences for both domestic and international policy, making this election pivotal.

read more
Trade with India: Lessons Pakistan must learn from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka

Trade with India: Lessons Pakistan must learn from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka

Trade with India presents a unique opportunity for boosting the Pakistan economy. This article explores the successes of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in fostering beneficial trade relations with India and highlights important economic lessons Pakistan must adopt to enhance economic growth and regional cooperation.

read more
Kashmir: Confrontation to Cooperation

Kashmir: Confrontation to Cooperation

This article examines the longstanding Kashmir conflict and the potential for transforming confrontation into cooperation between India and Pakistan. It analyzes historical tensions, diplomatic efforts, and the challenges of peace-building, offering hope for a future where dialogue replaces conflict in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

read more
Pakistan and World Affairs

Pakistan and World Affairs

This article provides a critical analysis of Pakistan’s evolving geopolitics and its growing influence in global affairs. It examines Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and international alliances, shedding light on the balancing act between domestic challenges and global expectations. The piece offers insight into how Pakistan navigates complex relationships and its strategic role on the world stage.

read more

Indian Military Expansion 2020 – Implications for Pakistan’s National Security

The rapid Indian military expansion in 2020 poses significant security threats to Pakistan. This article examines the implications for Pakistan’s national security, highlighting the shifting regional power dynamics and the steps Pakistan must take to protect its interests in a more militarized environment.

read more

United Nations Development System in Asia

This article explores the role of the United Nations Development system in fostering social progress and economic growth across Asia. It highlights the regional challenges that hinder development and discusses how the UN’s initiatives aim to overcome these barriers. The piece underscores the importance of tailored strategies to address the unique needs of Asian countries while driving sustainable development forward.

read more

Stability in South Asia – Time for a Lasting Peace Between India and Pakistan

This article examines the critical need for stability in South Asia through a sustained peace between India and Pakistan. It explores the long-standing conflict between the two nations and emphasizes the urgency of conflict resolution to ensure regional security and socio-economic growth. The article discusses potential pathways towards reconciliation and the benefits of fostering lasting peace in the region.

read more

The Polish Resolution: Unfolding the Diplomatic Drama of the 1971 Indo-Pak War

This article explores the Polish Resolution and its diplomatic significance in shaping international relations during a critical period of history. It highlights the global impact of the resolution and its historical significance as a pivotal moment in the interplay between nations. The article delves into the broader implications for diplomacy and how the resolution influenced global politics.

read more

Resolving The Kashmir Dispute: Blending Realism with Justice

The Kashmir dispute remains a core issue between India and Pakistan, demanding both realism and justice for a lasting solution. This article explores diplomatic approaches that balance geopolitical realities with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, advocating for a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict.

read more

Operation Gibraltar — An Unmitigated Disaster?

Operation Gibraltar, designed to incite a Kashmir insurgency, became a military disaster for Pakistan. This article critically examines the strategic miscalculations, lack of preparedness, and the resulting political failure, marking a pivotal moment in the 1965 Indo-Pak war. The operation, initially aimed at achieving strategic depth, ultimately exposed Pakistan’s vulnerabilities and reshaped its military doctrine.

read more

Prospects and Challenges for Increasing India And Pakistan Trade

This article examines the prospects and challenges of increasing India and Pakistan trade, highlighting the significant economic benefits for both nations. While emphasizing the need for regional cooperation, it also addresses the diplomatic hurdles that have historically hindered progress in bilateral relations.

read more

Cooperative Mechanism to Save Kashmir Environment and Water Wars

This article highlights the need for a cooperative mechanism to safeguard the Kashmir environment from the looming threat of water wars. Political tensions are exacerbating the strain on the region’s water resources, and only through regional cooperation and sustainable water management can long-term solutions be found to protect the environment and secure the region’s future.

read more

The 2008 Mumbai Attack

The 2008 Mumbai Attack remains a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against terrorism and its impact on Pakistan-India relations. The article explores how this tragic event intensified regional security concerns and highlights the growing threat of militancy in South Asia. The aftermath continues to shape diplomatic efforts and security measures between the two countries.

read more

How to Develop the Afghanistan – Pakistan Tribal Belts?

Developing the Afghanistan – Pakistan Tribal Belts is key to fostering regional stability and economic growth. These tribal regions, long neglected, hold the potential for greater cross-border cooperation and development. By focusing on infrastructure, education, and governance, both countries can pave the way for long-term economic stability and peace.

read more

Pakistan: On or Off? Examining the Future of US–Pakistan Relations In the War on Terror and Beyond

This article critically examines the future of US–Pakistan relations beyond the War on Terror, focusing on the complexities of this strategic alliance and its implications for political stability. It explores potential scenarios for collaboration or divergence, analyzing the shifting priorities and challenges each nation faces in navigating a stable, cooperative future.

read more

Using Trade as a Driver of Political Stability: Prospects in the Indo-Pak Context

This article examines the potential for trade to serve as a catalyst for political stability between India and Pakistan. By analyzing the prospects of economic collaboration through economic diplomacy, it highlights how improved trade relations could ease tensions in the Indo-Pak region, fostering long-term peace and cooperation. The article discusses key barriers and opportunities for progress, offering insights into how trade could reshape the future of these two nations.

read more

Patterns of Regional Cooperation: Options for Pakistan

This article analyzes the patterns of regional cooperation and explores strategic options for Pakistan to enhance its economic and geopolitical standing in South Asia. It delves into the challenges and opportunities for economic integration with neighboring countries, highlighting the potential benefits of improving foreign relations and fostering partnerships for mutual growth. The piece also addresses how Pakistan can leverage regional cooperation to ensure greater geopolitical stability, positioning itself as a key player in the region’s future development.

read more

Jinnah’s Worldview and Outlook on World Affairs

This article explores Jinnah’s worldview and his strategic outlook on world affairs, shedding light on how his vision shaped the foreign policy of Pakistan. It delves into the principles that guided Jinnah’s approach to international relations, focusing on his belief in diplomacy, peaceful coexistence, and Pakistan’s role on the global stage. By examining Jinnah’s stance on pivotal issues, the article offers a detailed understanding of his contributions to shaping Pakistan’s foreign policy and how his ideas continue to influence the country’s international posture today.

read more

Dimensions and Consequences of NATO Expansion to Eurasia: Reviewing Iran’s Security Environment

This article analyzes the dimensions and consequences of NATO expansion into Eurasia, particularly its impact on Iran’s security environment. It explores how NATO expansion influences regional stability, posing challenges to Iran’s geopolitical strategy and security. The article sheds light on the broader geopolitical consequences of this expansion for Eurasia and its long-term implications for Iran.

read more

Iran, the United States and Regional Stability

The article explores the delicate balance of regional stability in the Middle East, focusing on the strained relationship between Iran and the United States. It highlights how diplomatic relations and geopolitical tensions between these two nations impact the broader Middle East conflict, with significant implications for global security.

read more

Need For a Pak – Afghan Treaty on Management of Joint Water Courses

The article underscores the pressing need for a Pak – Afghan Treaty on joint water management, emphasizing the importance of managing shared water resources to prevent future conflicts. It calls for increased regional cooperation and stronger diplomatic relations to ensure sustainable use of these critical resources, which are vital for the stability and development of both nations.

read more

Kashmir Dispute: Is there a Viable Solution?

The article explores the ongoing Kashmir dispute and the challenges of finding a viable solution that satisfies both India and Pakistan. It delves into the political tensions surrounding the conflict and the impact on regional stability, while examining past and present peace negotiations that have yet to bring a lasting resolution.

read more

The Kashmir Dispute: A Kashmiri Assessment

he Kashmir Dispute: A Kashmiri Assessment provides an insightful look into the Kashmir dispute from a Kashmiri perspective, highlighting the deep-rooted political tensions and regional conflict. The article explores the historical complexities and current challenges, emphasizing the need for meaningful peace negotiations to address the concerns of all stakeholders.

read more

Inaugural Note

This inaugural note addresses Pakistan’s critical journey toward socio-political stability, emphasizing the importance of national development amidst economic challenges. With a global perspective, it discusses the urgent need for cohesive strategies that can bridge domestic and international aspirations, setting a hopeful tone for the country’s future.

read more

Connect With Us!

Stay informed and join the conversation—connect with us on social media for the latest insights and updates.

Get a Free PDF Copy of the Latest Issue When You Enter Your Email!