AN ANALYSIS OF SOUTH ASIAN SECURITY COMPLEXES THROUGH THE PRISM OF REGIONAL SECURITY COMPLEX THEORY

Abstract

This research paper attempts to offer a broader analysis of South Asian security complexes through the prism of RSCT. Buzan and Ole used South Asia as a prime case for developing the Regional Security Complex Theory. According to them, South Asian states face multi-dimensional security challenges, mainly due to internal security dynamics, which are also linked with external factors. This factor makes the security scenario of South Asia more complex. The most dominant country in the region is India due to a growing economy, massive military spending, and a large population. Its dominance in South Asia makes it a unipolar region (where only one country dominates and faces no competition). At the same time, its hostile relations with Pakistan and vulnerability in case of any predicament make South Asian order bipolar. This research study has employed the qualitative method in which secondary sources of data have taken from existing literature, published and unpublished research works. One of the main findings of this research is that a strong partnership and cooperation between regional states, particularly between Pakistan and India, is vital to counter-terrorism and extremism. At the same time, an amicable solution to Afghan conflict is a must for regional peace and stability.