Dr Shaheen Akhtar
Dr. Shaheen Akhtar is a Professor at the National Defense University.
DOI: http://DOI Number
Keywords: India, Pakistan, desecuritization, peace groups, stakeholders, security perceptions, conflict formation, negative perceptions, contentious issues, South Asia, ideational factors
Abstract
South Asia is a regional security complex in which securitization and desecuritization processes are profoundly intertwined, and patterns of amity and animosity between India and Pakistan are moulded by “security dilemmas” and persistent rivalry rooted in power distribution as well as “ideational” causes. Many PIPFDs have formed for Pakistan-India Peace, with agendas ranging from people-to-people interactions to bilateral problematic problems such as water and Kashmir, as well as increasing interdependence and combating terrorism. The study seeks to assess the success of the peace movement between India and Pakistan within the broader context of the Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) proposed by Barry Buzan and Ole Waever. The study will evaluate the objectives, agendas, approaches, actors/stakeholders involved, and the extent of contribution made by the key peace groups launching desecuritization efforts from a social constructivist perspective within this broader context. It contends that the significance of cross-border peace organisations is limited by the conflictual “fundamental structure” of the South Asian regional complex, but they do provide an opportunity to assist develop a “security regime” that moderates anxieties, animosity, and rivalry.
First Published
December 25, 2013
How to Cite
Dr Shaheen Akhtar, “India-Pakistan Cross-Border Peace Initiatives: Challenges & Prospects,” Regional Studies 32, no.1 (Winter 2013-14): 3-20, https://regionalstudies.com.pk/wp/article/india-pakistan-cross-border-peace-initiatives-challenges-prospects/
Issue
Volume 32, Issue 1