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— The SAC Team
Flagship reports
Thu, Jul 2, 2020
South Asia midyear pause: Taking stock of 2020
The specific events of the year’s first six months might have taken us by surprise but the political-economic dynamics that have shaped South Asia’s response to these new challenges did not. Across the region democracy and freedom of expression are challenged, and protectionist impulses are indulged in flailing response to calamitous economic strife. And the United States continues its slide into strategic irrelevance, exercising little leadership or interest in building stronger ties to this vital region.
Feature by
Tue, Jun 30, 2020
Assessing Indian digital trade policies: Will they support a $5 trillion economy?
Trade policy has come to the fore as a growing number of countries restrict exports of critical medical supplies to ensure sufficient availability for patients in-country. In this crisis, international collaboration to keep trade flowing has been limited and has not prevented many countries from imposing new trade restrictions.
In-Depth Research & Reports by
Countries in focus
Afghanistan
Politically, Afghanistan is at a critical juncture. As the United States deliberates how it will continue to engage with the nation, the pressure is mounting on its regional partners to step up and help stabilize the country for the sake of their own interests as well as those of the Afghan people.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh has undergone significant economic and social change since gaining independence in 1971, and is today one of the fastest growing countries worldwide. Despite its impressive achievements, Bangladesh continues to confront challenges including providing livelihoods for its youthful and growing population.
India
India has the strongest economy in the South Asian region, with rapid industrialization and growth in its services sector turning it into a global investment hub, although it continues to rely heavily on its agricultural sector. India must also navigate difficult relations with its neighbors, including Pakistan and China.
Pakistan
It has been hard for Pakistan to achieve strong economic growth over the years, but it still provides opportunities for private sector investors. Security remains a primary concern for Pakistan, as the decades-long conflict in Afghanistan and tensions with its eastern neighbor India persist.
COVID-19 in South Asia
As the countries of South Asia cope with COVID-19 outbreaks, over a billion people struggle daily with strained public health systems, unprecedented economic disruption, growing government surveillance and lasting uncertainty of what the future will bring. The pandemic’s outbreak impact on regional geopolitics, economics, security and governance will have deep and lasting ramifications for years to come.
Mon, Jun 15, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic will expedite long-standing transformations in supply chains and entertainment digitalization
Traditional industry was under heavy pressure to improve productivity through digitalization long before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the longevity of corporates in retail, travel, financial services, and real estate is in severe question, as disruptions by the COVID-19 pandemic have wreaked havoc on productivity. After COVID-19, remodeling business operations and digitalization will be necessary for survival.
Featured commentary and analysis
In-depth analysis of topics including trade, economic development, democratic institutions, media diplomacy, and regional security.
Thu, Jul 2, 2020
As the Sino-Indian rivalry heats up, watch Bangladesh carefully
Undoubtedly rivalry between India and China will intensify in South Asia in coming months and years ahead. With its position between the two rivals, Bangladesh will be a primary arena to watch the future competition.
New Atlanticist by Ali Riaz
Wed, Jul 1, 2020
What I dream of for Afghanistan
I was very young when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan forty years ago. It was the first time that I heard the sounds of helicopters overhead and gunshots in the streets, sounds that were completely alien to me and the city I had grown up in. Since then, not a day has passed where I […]
Timely Commentary & Analysis by
Mon, Jun 29, 2020
A divided Taliban could unleash a new proxy war in Afghanistan
The shift in the balance of power within the Taliban has the potential to upend Afghan security, India-Pakistan relations, and the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan.
New Atlanticist by
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Leadership
Staff:
Harris A. Samad (Project Assistant)
