HIGHLIGHT THE ROLE OF SAARC IN DEVELOPMENT OF SOUTH

ASIAN REGION

Subject Name: Global Politics and governance

Academic Year: 2024

Semester: 3rd

Submitted by
Rajnarayan
23/BALLB/27

Submitted to

Dipikanta Chakraborty
Assistant Professor of
Law

NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY, TRIPURA

Contents

1. Introduction: ........................................................................................................................................... 3

2. Historical Context and Objectives of SAARC ......................................................................................... 4

2.1. Historical Context ............................................................................................................................. 4

2.2. Objectives of SAARC ....................................................................................................................... 5

3. Key Initiative of SAARC For Regional Development.............................................................................. 6

4. Challenges Facing SAARC In Achieving Its Objectives .......................................................................... 7

4.1. Geopolitical Tensions ....................................................................................................................... 7

4.2. Economic Disparities ........................................................................................................................ 8

5. Is SAARC Resilient? .............................................................................................................................. 8

5.1. Structural Flexibility ......................................................................................................................... 8

5.2. Adaptation to Global Changes........................................................................................................... 9

5.3. Crisis Response Mechanisms ............................................................................................................ 9

5.4. Future Prospects for Flexibility ......................................................................................................... 9

6. Conclusion: .......................................................................................................................................... 10
1. Introduction:

1
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental
organization established in 1985 to promote economic and regional integration among its member
states: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. With a
combined population of over 1.8 billion people, SAARC represents approximately one-quarter of the
world's population. Significant historical, linguistic, and cultural variety, as well as distinct political
environments within each member state, define the region. Even though each SAARC nation has
unique national interests, cooperation is desperately needed because of the numerous problems they
face in common, such as poverty, social injustice, political unrest, and environmental problems. The
goal of SAARC was to provide a forum for tackling these common issues and advancing South
Asian development.
In order to raise the standard of living for South Asians, SAARC's main goals are to advance social
advancement, economic growth, and cultural development. By promoting collaboration in fields
including trade, technology, education, health, and the environment, SAARC hopes to accomplish
these objectives. SAARC's strategy has placed a strong emphasis on regional integration,
encouraging intraregional investment and commerce to fortify ties between its member nations. By
lowering tariffs and other trade restrictions, programs like the South Asian Free Trade Area
(SAFTA) seek to boost commerce, which may hasten regional economic development. Furthermore,
through initiatives like the SAARC Development Fund (SDF), the organization directs funds toward
projects in fields including healthcare, poverty alleviation,
SAARC's emphasis on tackling important social concerns that cut beyond country boundaries has
been one of its most important accomplishments. For example, SAARC's development agenda has
placed a strong emphasis on health and education. Since illnesses know no boundaries, efforts like
SAARC's HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis control initiatives have aimed to raise public health standards.
In order to facilitate information transfer and develop an educated workforce that can contribute to
regional prosperity, SAARC encourages cooperation between universities and research organizations
in the field of education. These programs are steps in the direction of creating a South Asian society
that is more cohesive and resilient.

However, despite its potential, a number of obstacles have impeded SAARC's advancement, chief
among them being political disagreements among its member states. India and Pakistan's long-

1
G.W. Kaye, SAARC: Prospects and Challenges (2nd ed., Sage Publications, 2016) 45.
standing rivalry has often caused decision-making processes to freeze, resulting in missed
possibilities for collaboration and delays in the implementation of initiatives. Deadlock frequently
arises from SAARC's decision-making process's unanimity principle, which calls for consensus from
all member nations before a resolution is approved. The usefulness of SAARC as a regional
organization has been criticized as a result of this structural restriction, which has also delayed its
progress.

However, SAARC remains a crucial venue for regional discourse, providing its member nations with
a means of addressing common issues via cooperation and diplomacy. Future success for the
company will mostly depend on its capacity to adjust to
In this project, we will explore the ways SAARC has contributed to the development of South Asia,
examine the challenges it faces, and discuss the potential for SAARC to become a more effective
instrument for regional cooperation. This analysis will highlight both SAARC’s achievements and
limitations in fostering economic growth, social progress, and stability, and suggest strategies to
enhance its impact in the years to come.

2. Historical Context and Objectives of SAARC

2.1. Historical Context

The historical context of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) can be
traced back to the 1980s, a period marked by rising regionalism worldwide. South Asia, a region
with deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, faced numerous shared challenges such as poverty,
political instability, and underdevelopment. Recognizing the potential benefits of regional
cooperation, the idea of a South Asian union emerged, driven particularly by Bangladesh’s President
Ziaur Rahman, who envisioned a platform to foster collaboration and development across South
Asia.

In 1985, leaders from seven South Asian nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal,
Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—formally established SAARC through the adoption of the SAARC Charter
at a summit in Dhaka. The organization was built on principles of mutual respect, cooperation, and
non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. Afghanistan joined SAARC in 2007, becoming its
eighth member.
SAARC was created with the ambition to promote economic and social progress, improve the
quality of life for the region’s people, and strengthen regional integration. Early initiatives focused
on areas such as agriculture, rural development, education, health, and the environment. Over time,
SAARC expanded its focus to include trade and economic collaboration, exemplified by the
establishment of the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) in 2006, aiming to reduce trade barriers
and enhance economic ties among member states.

2.2. Objectives of SAARC

The primary objectives of SAARC, as outlined in its Charter, are:

1. Promote Economic and Social Development: 2SAARC aims to accelerate economic growth
and social progress in member countries, enhancing their quality of life and collective
welfare.

2. Strengthen Collective Self-Reliance: A major goal is to reduce dependence on external aid

and enhance regional self-sufficiency. This includes promoting intraregional trade, industrial
collaboration, and investment.

3. Promote Mutual Trust and Understanding: SAARC endeavors to build an atmosphere of

mutual respect, collaboration, and trust among its member countries. This objective aims to
reduce tensions and conflicts in a region where historical and political disputes are
significant.

4. Cooperation in Key Areas: SAARC focuses on various areas of cooperation, including

agriculture, rural development, science and technology, health, population, and the
environment, to address common challenges faced by South Asian countries.

2
"SAARC's Role in Economic Integration of South Asia," 27 South Asia Journal 301 (2021).
3. Key Initiative of SAARC For Regional Development

3
SAARC has launched several initiatives over the years to promote regional development, tackle
common challenges, and foster collaboration in South Asia. Here are some of the key initiatives:

1. SAFTA (South Asian Free Trade Area)

 Objective:4 Launched in 2006, SAFTA aims to reduce trade barriers among SAARC
member countries and establish a free trade area to boost regional trade and economic
cooperation.

 Significance: By lowering tariffs and promoting trade, SAFTA seeks to enable economic
integration, create jobs, and spur economic growth across South Asia.

 Challenges: Political issues, especially between India and Pakistan, and differing levels of
economic development have slowed progress, limiting the effectiveness of SAFTA.

2. SAARC Development Fund (SDF)

 Objective: Established in 2010, the SDF funds regional initiatives in social, economic, and
infrastructure sectors.

 Significance: SDF supports projects aimed at poverty alleviation, economic integration, and
sustainable development. It has financed various initiatives in healthcare, education, and
women’s empowerment across the region.

 Projects: Some notable projects include the SAARC Agriculture Centre and the SAARC
Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Centre.

3. SAARC Regional Centers

 Objective : To focus on specialized areas of cooperation by establishing dedicated centers in

each member country.

 Examples:

3
SAARC Secretariat, SAARC Regional Cooperation Report 2022, SAARC Secretariat, 2022, 16.
4
SAARC Charter, Art. IV, (1985).
 o SAARC Agricultural Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which promotes sustainable
agricultural practices and research.

o SAARC Energy Centre in Islamabad, Pakistan, which focuses on renewable energy

and energy efficiency.

o SAARC Disaster Management Centre in Gandhinagar, India, which aims to

enhance disaster preparedness and response in the region.

3. SAARC Agreement on Rapid Response to Natural Disasters

 Objective: 5This agreement allows member states to collaborate on disaster response and
recovery efforts.

 Significance: Given South Asia’s vulnerability to earthquakes, floods, and other natural
disasters, this agreement strengthens disaster preparedness and facilitates timely response by
mobilizing resources and sharing expertise.

 Actions : Member countries engage in joint training programs, simulations, and have
established frameworks for coordinated disaster response efforts.

4. Challenges Facing SAARC In Achieving Its Objectives

4.1. Geopolitical Tensions

6
One of the most significant challenges facing SAARC is geopolitical tension between India and
Pakistan. Historical conflicts over Kashmir continue to hinder cooperative efforts within the
organization.

Impact:

5
B.K. Prasad, ed., Regional Cooperation and Development in South Asia (1st ed., Concept Publishing, 2015) 108.
6
V. Patel, Regional Integration and Economic Development: The Role of SAARC, Working Paper No. 45, Centre for Policy Research
(2022).
  Stalled Initiatives: Many proposed initiatives have been stalled due to political disagreements
between these two key members.

 Distrust Among Members: Ongoing tensions create an atmosphere of distrust that

complicates collaborative efforts across various sectors.

4.2. Economic Disparities

The economic disparities among member states pose another challenge for effective cooperation
within SAARC.

Impact:

 Uneven Development: Countries like India have significantly larger economies compared to
smaller nations like Bhutan or Maldives; 7this imbalance affects negotiations on trade
agreements.

 Limited Participation: Smaller economies may struggle to participate fully in collaborative

projects due to resource constraints.

5. Is SAARC Resilient?

5.1. Structural Flexibility

8
SAARC's structure allows for some degree of flexibility. The organization comprises eight
member states—Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri
Lanka—each with unique political and economic contexts. This diversity necessitates a
flexible approach to cooperation. For instance, SAARC has established various regional
centers and mechanisms that can adapt to the specific needs of member countries in areas
such as agriculture, disaster management, and environmental protection.

7
R. Singh, "SAARC's Role in Economic Integration of South Asia," 27 South Asia Journal 301 (2021).
8
J. Kumar, "SAARC’s Future Amidst Regional Challenges," www.southasiananalysis.com/saarc-development
5.2. Adaptation to Global Changes

Despite its potential for flexibility,9 SAARC has been criticized for its slow adaptation to
global changes. The organization has struggled to respond effectively to emerging issues
such as climate change, technological advancements, and economic shifts

. For example, while other regional organizations like ASEAN have successfully integrated
new economic policies and frameworks, SAARC has lagged behind due to political
disagreements among member states.

5.3. Crisis Response Mechanisms

SAARC has shown some flexibility in its response to crises, particularly in areas like disaster
management. The establishment of the SAARC Disaster Management Centre highlights the
organization's ability to adapt to immediate challenges faced by member states

. However, the effectiveness of these mechanisms is often limited by the need for consensus
among member states, which can delay action during emergencies.

5.4. Future Prospects for Flexibility

Looking ahead, SAARC's flexibility will depend on several factors:

 Political Will: A renewed commitment from member states to prioritize regional cooperation
over bilateral disputes could enhance SAARC's adaptability.

 Economic Integration: Fostering deeper economic ties through initiatives like SAFTA could
create a more integrated regional market that benefits all members.

 Engagement with Global Issues: Addressing global challenges such as climate change and
terrorism collectively could strengthen SAARC’s relevance and operational flexibility

9
B.K. Prasad, ed., Regional Cooperation and Development in South Asia (1st ed., Concept Publishing, 2015) 108.
6. Conclusion:

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has been instrumental in fostering
cooperation and supporting development initiatives across South Asia since its establishment in
1985. With eight member countries—Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal,
Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—10SAARC represents one of the world’s most densely populated regions,
accounting for over a quarter of the global population. The organization has sought to address
common challenges, including poverty, economic inequality, health crises, and natural disasters, in a
region marked by historical rivalries, particularly between India and Pakistan. Despite these
complexities, SAARC’s initiatives have underscored its commitment to advancing development and
improving the quality of life in South Asia.

One of SAARC's key contributions to regional development is its focus on economic cooperation.
The establishment of the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) aimed to reduce tariffs, foster
cross-border trade, and promote economic integration. While SAFTA has not reached its full
potential due to political and economic barriers, it represents a significant step towards creating a
unified South Asian market.

Economic cooperation is further enhanced through the SAARC Development Fund (SDF), which
finances initiatives in sectors such as health, education, and women’s empowerment. The SDF has
enabled collaboration on projects addressing poverty alleviation and social welfare, thereby
contributing to a more inclusive economic landscape in the region.

SAARC has also made strides in social development through its commitment to health and
educational initiatives. 11 The SAARC Social Charter emphasizes poverty reduction, social justice,
and gender equality. Furthermore, the organization has established various regional centers focusing
on agriculture, energy, disaster management, and communicable diseases. The SAARC Tuberculosis
and HIV/AIDS Centre, for example, plays an essential role in addressing public health issues that
transcend borders, while the SAARC Disaster Management Centre coordinates responses to natural
calamities, enhancing preparedness and resilience across the region. These social programs highlight
SAARC’s recognition that development goes beyond economic growth to encompass quality of life
improvements for its people.

10
Government of India, Ministry of External Affairs, India and SAARC Cooperation (Government of India Press, 2019) 14.
11
R.K. Sharma, SAARC and Regional Development: An Analytical Study, (PhD thesis, Delhi University, 2021).
Additionally, 12SAARC’s environmental and disaster management initiatives are critical given the
vulnerability of South Asia to climate change and natural disasters. The SAARC Agreement on
Rapid Response to Natural Disasters and the SAARC Food Bank were established to aid in disaster
response and ensure food security, particularly during times of crisis. This regional approach helps
mitigate risks associated with environmental degradation and ensures that countries can depend on
mutual assistance in times of need.

However, SAARC's effectiveness has been hampered by political conflicts, particularly the ongoing
tensions between India and Pakistan, which have stalled decision-making and limited its capacity to
fully implement regional initiatives. The organization operates on a consensus basis, which, while
fostering inclusivity, has also prevented it from taking swift action on pressing issues. Furthermore,
intra-regional trade remains low, accounting for less than 5% of total trade in South Asia,
highlighting the challenges in creating a cohesive economic bloc.

Despite these obstacles, SAARC remains a crucial platform for dialogue, cooperation, and the
pursuit of collective goals in South Asia. Strengthening SAARC requires renewed commitment from
its member states to prioritize shared interests over bilateral tensions and foster a regional identity.
By doing so, SAARC could play a transformative role in driving sustainable development,
promoting peace, and enhancing prosperity in South Asia. Enhanced economic integration, robust
social programs, and strengthened disaster response mechanisms can pave the way for a more
interconnected and resilient South Asia, making SAARC an indispensable force for regional
progress.

12
"SAARC's New Challenges Amidst Global Tensions," The Hindu, May 15, 2023 (New Delhi).
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