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1. An Econometric Approach on Money Laundering and Its Impact on Economic Growth (A Study of Pakistan)

Author:
Arfa Batool, Qamar Afaq Qureshi, and Shumaila Hashim
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Money laundering is not the issue of today, as it is coming from the early days in many ways and the evil to society as it effects not only those peoples which are related to this evil as well as it also hits the noble peoples of the society by not paying the legal levies that increases the prices of products in the market. Research is carried out to check the impact of money laundering on the economy of Pakistan in an econometric way along with the other control variables (inflation, unemployment, remittances, number of crimes, total investment, and corruption). Money laundering is measured with informal economy and economic growth is measured with GDP. Annual data from 2000 to 2019 is employed for the purpose of analysis and suitable statistical tools are applied to derive the results. Through these test short run and long run effects are derived also. For analysis of the data, secondary data of two recent decades are used which is collected from the different sources i.e. economic surveys, published papers, and World Bank database etc. At the end it is concluded that money laundering has negative effect on the economy of Pakistan along with other variables.
Topic:
Corruption, Economic Growth, Financial Crimes, Inflation, Unemployment, Remittances, and Money Laundering
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

2. Sexual Harassment at Workplaces: Problems and Solutions in a case study of Lahore

Author:
Rana Tahir Rehman Khan and Saqib Khan Warraich
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
This research aims to investigate harassment faced by women at workplaces. The research methodology used for this study is qualitative, and semi-structured interviews have been conducted to collect primary data. A population size of onehundred working women at public and private institutions of Lahore has been taken. Twenty working women were interviewed and themes and sub-themes were derived from the collected data. The results revealed that harassment commonly occurs in workplaces. It includes abuse, non-consensual physical contact, threats, homophobic comments, ogling, and attempts at seduction, gender-based harassment, sexual coercion, and sexual imposition. It not only impacts the psychological condition of working women but also impacts their productivity. Those women who are the only breadwinners of their families are unwilling to take any action against the culprits so as not to lose their jobs; as a result, perpetrators exploit them. Most respondents contacted were aware of women's rights, but not familiar with the Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010. The study identified several issues related to harassment and recommended significant initiatives to train women against harassment.
Topic:
Women, Sexual Violence, Work Culture, and Harassment
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

3. Nation-Building Process of Pakistan: Traditional and Non-Traditional Challenges

Author:
A. Z. Hilali
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
“Nation-building or State-building” has been a 20th century highly complex and controversial concept which taking again center-stage in the post-Cold War era. The idea has generated much heated debate in the world as well as in the academic circles. The notion is a process of constructing or structuring a unification of the people within the state through the state power which can be politically and economically stable and viable in the long run. In the past „nation-building‟ or „state-building‟ approach emphasizes on cultural identity for the newly established „nation-states‟ which lead to self-determination. However, in the contemporary modern world, it is process whereby a diverse society with different languages, cultures and religions come together within the boundaries of a sovereign state with a unified constitutional and legal dispensation. In this regard, Pakistan is multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious state where people have less amount of commonality of interests, goals and preferences. It is extremely unlikely that different linguistic communities will agree on the definition of „nation‟. Its complexity and fragility is the product of deep rooted political and economic factors which are the main threats to its domestic security and stability. It is also fact that religion and external threats are no more viable reason for the state and regime survival. So, the guardians of the state remain failed to succeed in „nationbuilding‟ process which is still the biggest challenge to the country‟s solidarity. Modern scholars have views that nation-building cannot complete without economic development, modernization and democratization. Thus, the state is the political regime that operates within an existing nation or nations. It is the role of the state to bring together disparate national communities into a stable political regime. Nonetheless, the model of democratization, expansion of federal structure, economic growth and stable political institutions recognize as the formula of success and this is the only way of nation-building or national integration.
Topic:
Democratization, Politics, Ethnicity, Language, Economic Development, and Nation Building
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

4. US-Shaped World Order and Pakistan: Past, Present and Future

Author:
Syed Mohammed Ali and Zafar Nawaz Jaspal
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
This research paper critically analyses Pakistan‟s crucial and costly relationship with the United States of America, during the three eras of bipolar, unipolar and emerging multi-polar world order. It also contemplates that a new and balanced relationship, anchored in shared bilateral economic, political and security interests built simultaneously with the status quo, emerging and resurgent great powers is more beneficial and less risky for Pakistan in future than band wagoning with a single great power or offering its total security commitment against any other great power. Total alignment with a great power not only earns the threat of other great powers but also makes Pakistan more vulnerable against economic coercion in an interdependent global economy. It also argues that Thucydides‟ Trap is not a manifest destiny and can be avoided with astute statecraft rather than provocative and dangerous risk taking strategic competition.
Topic:
Power Politics, International System, Coercion, and Cooptation
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Russia, South Asia, India, and United States of America

5. Critical Event Analysis to Terrorism in an Emerging Economy of Pakistan

Author:
Shumaila Umer, Kausar Yasmeen, and Kashifa Yasmeen
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The widespread suffering caused by terrorism has been discussed at length in the media. Unfortunately, there is a relative paucity of empirical research on the nature and causes of terrorism. The present study examines the issue of terrorism quite modestly, but nonetheless significantly. It finds the root cause that generates numerous other causes which increase the incidence of terrorism. This study is unique in terms of its step-by-step implementation of analysis. In the first phase, the study applies thematic analysis and reveals the general causes of terrorism. In the second phase scrutiny of general causes is done to find the root cause of terrorism and finally, multinomial logistic regression is applied to ensure consistency between the results. Multinomial logistic regression reveals that coefficients of all interaction terms are significant, indicating that the effect of religion, geographic location, international players, and communications technology on terrorism depends on legislation and its strategic implementation. Like Ukraine, Pakistan is geographically significant for international players with respect to the containment of China and trade. Weak legislation in Pakistan facilitates international players not only to change the regime of the country but also to create terror groups that misuse religious schools. This study suggests that legislation must be implemented gradually through strategies; otherwise, policy implementation may have an adverse impact. Legislation helps to protect a country from terrorism in two ways. Firstly, it reduces the likelihood of terrorism entering, and secondly, it helps to combat existing terrorism. Based on the findings, this study also recommends counterterrorism, security officials have to work covertly in the media and other sectors which can impact the severity of terrorism in the country; this entails adopting mimicking factors. We expect that the present study will contribute to social and political improvements and have beneficial effects on the economy.
Topic:
Security, Terrorism, Economy, and Legislation
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

6. A Narrative of Debt Trap Vs Connectivity under CPEC: A Case of Gwadar Port

Author:
Rizwan Naseer, Qiubin Wang, and Ahmad Ali
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Gwadar has been an underdeveloped city in Baluchistan but CPEC has addressed problems of education, health and electricity for local populace. The vision to convert Gwadar into a hub of trade is reaping benefits for Pakistan. China‟s investment and loans in Gwadar under the CPEC are termed as Debt Trap by the India and U.S. media outlets. Majority of the Western media, academia and policy making circles deliberately established the narrative of Debt Trap Diplomacy (DTD). Gwadar port is likely to unlock potential of connectivity with regional trade partners in West Asia-Central Asia and South Asia. This project is a win-win situation for China and Pakistan. China‟s investment in Gwadar port will improve Pakistan‟s economy, uplift Baluchistan‟s living standards by offering attractive opportunity to potential investors in Gwadar‟s free zone. China‟s investment in Gwadar is promising to bring real change in Gwadar and Pakistan in particular. Due to massive propaganda against Gwadar, desired results have not been achieved yet. This paper is based on primary as well as secondary data. Primary data has been collected from Planning Commission of Pakistan on the condition of anonymity. The main argument of the paper is that the narrative of debt trap diplomacy is false. Connectivity of Gwadar with regional countries will be a game changer in the region.
Topic:
Debt, Foreign Direct Investment, and Prosperity
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

7. Impact of CPEC on Pakistan’s Economic Outlook

Author:
Sajid Mehmood Shahzad
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Pakistan‟s vital geopolitical position is an advantage for this South Asian nation. It is located at the apex of the Arabian Peninsula. Thus, the People‟s Republic of China has setup the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with a futuristic strategy to gain long-term benefits. This planning is not random at all. It is a cohesive plan to revitalize the financial system of its long-standing collaborator and ally through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is currently the talk of the town. The present study analyzes how Pakistan‟s conventional economic outlook can be transformed through the CPEC. While harnessing the power of Pakistan as a „trade route‟, the CPEC has the potential to reshape transport & security options, increase the cost-effectiveness of goods, and widen the scope for new and existing businesses. it will develop a networking coherence among agricultural & industrial hubs and connect special economic zones (SEZs) with the rest of the country and beyond. This paper evaluates the CPEC‟s fiscal footprint on Pakistan‟s economy and examines the correlation between overcoming economic shortcomings and increasing future gains through a cause-and-effect relationship.
Topic:
Geopolitics, Economy, and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Political Geography:
Pakistan, China, South Asia, and Asia

8. National Security: An Exception of Freedom of Speech

Author:
Aman Ullah and Akram Badshah
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The real autonomy would not be possible if people were not capable to express their thoughts, compose their opinions, or linked with those who might discuss their feelings and thoughts. It is also an essential right in a free society to be liberally allowed to participate in the welfare of society. The equilibrium should be maintained by imposing realistic restrictions which may be levied under the law when the right to Freedom of Speech comes in clash with rights of other individuals which can help the democratic state to preserve the basic right of Freedom of Speech at an admissible level. The basic purpose of this article is to explore the scope and extent of “protection of national security” an exception of Freedom of Speech in the light of national and international instruments.
Topic:
Human Rights, National Security, Freedom of Expression, Free Speech, and Debates
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

9. Pak-China Geostrategic Interdependence: Impact on Rising Economies of Asia

Author:
Ameena Nasim
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
China and Pakistan have enjoyed a close and mutually beneficial relationship during the last seven decades. Both the nations‘ leadership pronounced the bilateral relationship between China and Pakistan as the ―All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership‖ and ―Iron Brother.‖ The strategic partnership between China and Pakistan has a significant impact on the Asian strategic environment in particular and global politics. The Indian strategic enclave regards China-Pakistan‘s multifaceted relationship as a substantial obstacle for India‘s rise as a Great Power within the regional context. The study‘s primary objective is to critically examine impact on Asia‘s main actors such as India and Russia. So that one can profess about the dynamics of this relationship and implications of China and Pakistan‘s geo-strategic relations on the rising economies. A qualitative study with qualitative interviews and thematic analysis was applied to conduct this study. The analysis reveals that South Asian RSC has no change in the patterns of amity and enmity. The region continues to be conflictive, where their enduring rivalry and continued distrust shape enmity patterns between Pakistan and India. On the contrary, Pakistan and China‘s amity patterns can be seen growing in the longstanding strategic relationship and deep-rooted cooperation. The investigation discovers that on a bilateral level, several new factors in the post-9/11 era have molded Pakistan-China Strategic relations, which have intricate linkages with the regional and global security complexion.
Topic:
Economics, Bilateral Relations, Strategic Interests, Interdependence, and Regional Politics
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Russia, China, South Asia, and Asia

10. Affinity Networks and Hereditary Succession in the Political Parties and its Impact on the Federation of Pakistan

Author:
Sarfraz Batool and Marium Kamal
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The political system of Pakistan rests on the principle of federation: powers of decisionmaking are constitutionally divided between parliament and the provincial governments. The constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973 emphasizes party-based democracy. It demands the practice of democracy within the political parties to promote democratic norms in political culture and to create a conducive political environment to strengthen the federal system in Pakistan. The second important principle of federation is unity in diversity. A political party in a federation is considered as a bridge between the federal government and its federating units having its roots in the general masses across the federating units. It helps the federating units to have a forum to identify, express, and articulate their interests. But the element of hereditary succession and the presence of affinity networks within political parties is weakening the democratic spirit of the federal Constitution of Pakistan. In major political parties, the only merit to elevate to the highest rank in the party is to be the next heir or to be the close relative of the party leader. The culture of hereditary leadership promotes the norms of kinship politics and nepotism where political decisions are made to protect the vested interests of kinship groups at the cost of the more extensive interests of the federation. This paper is based on three sections; the first section deals with the phenomena of hereditary politics in general; the second section deals with the importance of political parties in a federal system and; the third section of the study deals with hereditary succession and affinity networks in political parties in Pakistan and their impact on the federal system. The study used the desk research method to analyze the data under the qualitative approach. Primary and secondary sources are used to collect the data, however, primary data is collected from various internet sources like official websites of FAFEN, ECP, and Dunya news, etc.
Topic:
Politics, Social Networks, Federation, and Kinship
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

11. Political Rights of Christian Minority in Pakistan before 1973

Author:
Tooba Ahmad, Ghulam Mustafa, and Rahila Asfa
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
When Muslim Leaders of the Subcontinent of India were trying to create a different independent state for Muslims, the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah repeatedly used the phrase “Separate state for the Minorities of India”. He demanded a state where all types of minorities could live freely according to their religious teachings and norms. These demands were very pleasing for all types of religious minorities of the Subcontinent, so few of them supported the idea of Pakistan where anyone could live freely. The Christian community supported the idea of Pakistan and made efforts to become part of it. There are different speeches of Quaid-e-Azam that consist of praises of Christian leaders who were helping the Muslim leadership. Despite the fact that Pakistan’s Objective Resolution and Constitution of 1956 and 1962 gave equal rights to every citizen and religious liberty to minorities, the Objective Resolution and Constitution of 1956 and 1962 are the most condemned document which made Pakistan a theocracy. After liberty and freedom, political rights are the most important rights for any person. This paper will try to find out the answer to the question of how objective resolution, Constitution of 1956 and 1962 dealt with the minority rights and their political rights. For this purpose in-depth study of all three documents occurred along with different articles, news, research reports and books.
Topic:
Islam, Politics, Minorities, History, Christianity, and Hinduism
Political Geography:
Pakistan, South Asia, and India

12. Role of Biraderism in Democratization in Punjab, Pakistan; a Conceptual Framework

Author:
Nabila Akhtar and Qamar Fatima
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Pakistan has been in pursuit for stable democratic system since its creation. The patronclient relationship is shaping and defining the general politics and the biraderi politics of Pakistan. These links also legitimize the politically dynamic biraderies‘ clench on means and resources as well as the transfer of these resources as a bequest to coming generations of biraderies. The process of democratization is directly correlated and undermined due to biraderism that makes its pace very sluggish and inactive. It has been considered irresistible for non-democratic forces. It is generally argued the prehistoric group identities like family, kinship and caste, or biraderi membership, played a more important role in determining voting behaviour than the individual‘s political rational preferences. This phenomenon is overwhelmingly rule in the life of an individual in a society which is still in the transitional phase of democracy. The settlement policies of social engineering of the British had worked very well in the central region Punjab specifically. This is a theoretical and analytical study that presents a conceptual framework between biraderism and democratization process. The process of democratization is a dependent variable and the dynamics of biraderism work as an independent variable.
Topic:
Democratization, Political stability, Voting, Social Networks, and Clientelism
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

13. Blue Economy of Maritime Nations in South Asia: Challenges and Prospects

Author:
Fatima Faraan and Khushboo Ejaz
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The blue economy is the development of sustainable economic growth preserving the marine ecosystem. The concept of a blue economy emerged after the UN Rio+20 conference held in Rio de Janeiro in 2012. South Asian maritime nations are facing serious economic problems. They all have excessive oceanic resources and different maritime economy sectors like shipping, coastal tourism, fishing, etc. This research explores the challenges which are associated with these maritime economy sectors of South Asian littoral states. This study also intends to find out the possible options available to earn more through the maritime sectors to improve their current social and economic conditions. A case study design has been used in this research. Interviews have been conducted from maritime experts for this case study. India is the largest South Asian country in terms of population and technological advancements. It is investing a lot in the tourism and shipping sector to become a strong blue nation. Pakistan’s blue economy sectors have vast potential, but there is a need to formulate favorable policies and considerable investments to utilize all these resources. Bangladesh is putting positive efforts toward sustainable development in the coastal tourism, fishing, and shipping sectors. Maldives is famous for the best beaches and tourist destinations. Sri Lanka’s maritime economy sectors have faced many ups and downs, which affected her blue economy growth. This research concludes that the future of maritime South Asian states is related to the development of the blue economy. All these littoral states should work together and find out strategies for regional development.
Topic:
Economy, Economic Growth, Maritime, Sustainability, and Regional Development
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Asia, and India

14. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: News Framing in Political, Strategic, and Economic Perspectives in Print Media of Pakistan

Author:
Hammad Naseer, Muhammad Raza Majid, and Malik Adnan
Publication Date:
01-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The treatment, image, and issues related to CPEC become significant when this venture is considered a game-changer for the Pakistani economy. This study analyzes the CPEC coverage in Pakistan's highly circulated English newspaper, Daily Dawn, and The News. The quantitative content analysis technique is employed for this study from April 2015 to December 2019. This study aims to explore how news contents of selected newspapers portray the image of CPEC and the treatment of selected newspapers toward this project. The theoretical foundation of this study work under the Grunig models of Public Relations. The findings of this study reveal that both newspapers portray a positive image of CPEC. The primary focus of the news content of selected newspapers is information regarding the economic and political aspects of this project, while inadequate significance is given to strategic, social, and legal aspects. Moreover, from Grunig’s models' perspective, major public relations practices worked under the public information and press agent model.
Topic:
Economics, Politics, Media, and CPEC
Political Geography:
Pakistan, China, and South Asia

15. Defamatory Statements in Recent Political Landscape and Freedom of Speech

Author:
Aman Ullah and Akram Badshah
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
It is an internationally recognized principle that the prerogative to speak freely is a preliminary human right of the utmost importance. It is a fundamental democratic principle which plays a key role in strengthening other human rights. Concurrently, it is widely accepted that this right is not absolute and the legislature may impose restrictions on it, according to law, for the welfare of the people. The unbridled license may not be given to any person for publishing defamatory material, either libel or slander, which defames the dignity and reputation of others on the plea of the prerogative to speak freely. The prerogative to speak freely must be proportionated against other fundamental rights and constitutional principles. The basic purpose of this article is to explore the “defamatory statement” which harms the reputation of others in the light of UDHR, ICCPR and the Constitution of Pakistan, particularly in the recent political landscape.
Topic:
Human Rights, Politics, Freedom of Expression, Free Speech, and Defamation
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

16. Is Terrorism a Unique Form of Violence? An Assessment of the Academic Critique

Author:
Dayyab Gillani
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The longstanding question over whether or not terrorism is a unique form of violence that demands its own unique set of responses is one of the most outstanding theoretical and conceptual problems in the terrorism discourse. The contentious debate has generated and actively sustained a number of competing theories and convictions. Amidst all this, the already convoluted concept of terrorism has become all the more peculiar. The attempts to undermine the uniqueness of terrorism, in particular, pose a serious challenge to the chances of terrorism ever becoming an independent field of academic research. Given the fallout, it becomes necessary to especially reassess the critique that strips terrorism of its uniqueness and distinctiveness.
Topic:
Terrorism, Political Theory, and Violence
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

17. Lived Experiences of Women Academicians in Higher Education Institutions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Author:
Farooq Abdullah and Hazir Ullah
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Studies in different socio-cultural contexts have found that women academics face structural and cultural obstacles and barriers. Less is known about the lived experiences of women academics in the context of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. This study explores the lived experiences of women academicians in coeducation higher education institutions (HEIs) / universites of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan. The main objective of the study was to know the working relationships and interactions between women academicians with their men colleagues and students. We also attempted to unpack how women academicians manage their families and academic responsibilities. The data for the study come from sixteen in-depth interviews with women academicians in two public sector coeducation universities/ HEIs of AJK. The respondents were selected with the help of purposive sampling technique. We processed and analyzed the collected data inline with the qualitative data analysis technique. We enagegd Walby‟s (1990) concept of pubic and private patriarchy. Our study findings/results unpacked the explicit and implicit disparities and discrimination faced by women academicians in the prevailing patriarchal structure of higher education institutions of AJK. The findings advance and further the existing debate on the lived experiences of women academicians in HEIs with new insights from the specific context of AJK.
Topic:
Women, Feminism, Higher Education, Patriarchy, and Gender
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

18. National Unity and Cohesion in Pakistan: A Critical Assessment of the Constitution 1973

Author:
Naseem Anthony, Ghulam Mustafa, and Sonia Patras
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Pakistan is a galaxy of religions and a land having rich cultural diversity. Such attributes have fascinated the research scholars, political scientists, and sociologists for studying the elements that, despite of indifferences, have connected the people. Pakistan was a political demanded of a visible Muslim minority of Sub-Continent to have a piece of land where the deprived and oppressed community (Muslim) can enjoy the liberty and freedom of their culture, tradition, and religious rituals. However, when the Pakistan Movement was on its full spring, other small minorities have also joined hands. Furthermore, Quaid’s vision for a democratic, tolerant, and inclusive society convinced the other minorities and ethnic groups for opting to live in Pakistan. The constitutional and political history of Pakistan reflects the efforts and energies invested by the decision makers to strengthen the national unity and cohesive bond. The research topic ‘National Unity and Cohesion in Pakistan: A Critical Assessment of Constitution 1973’ is an attempt to identify the constitutional provisions for ensuring national unity and cohesion. The qualitative method has been deployed in which the researcher studied the material already produced on the same topic and conducted interviews. The primary objective of this endeavour was to assess the constitutional commitments and the political will to ensure implementation. Additionally, the factors that have affected the implementation and disturbed the social fabric of Pakistan contributing to increase marginalization of weak segments of society and excluding some specific groups from the mainstream.
Topic:
Minorities, Constitution, Social Cohesion, Inclusion, and Unity
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia

19. Central and South Asia Economic Corridor in the Evolving Central Asian Geo-Political Circumstances

Author:
Shabir Amhad Khan and Imrana Begum
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
The US withdrawal from Central Asia, Russia-Ukraine conflict and diverted great-powers’ competition from the region necessitate and drive the Central Asian region to revive historical links and open up in southern direction. The circumstances also induce Russia to open up trade routes to South via Central Asia. Central Asia with prudent regional approach may move from a “shatter belt” status (a region torn by internal strife and external intervention) to strengthened regionalism in the absence of direct great powers’ competition. The changed geo-political and geo-economic situation presents new opportunities to Central Asia, Afghanistan and South Asia for developing the Central-South Asia economic corridor, though accompanied with challenges within Afghanistan. The paper argues that the recent changes in the situation of the region provide additional space to the Central Asian countries for political maneuver to address the issues of security and development by materializing Central-South Asia economic corridor.
Topic:
Security, Development, Geopolitics, and Economy
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Afghanistan, South Asia, and Central Asia

20. Role of Demographic Factors in Children’s Language Acquisition at Middle Level: A South Asian Countries’ Survey Study

Author:
Sana Nazir Ahmed, Mehwish Liaqat, Rabia Aslam, and Muhammad Suhaib Karamat
Publication Date:
07-2022
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
South Asian Studies
Institution:
Department of Political Science, University of the Punjab
Abstract:
Language is one of the most complex abilities, especially teaching in a formal learning environment and demography may help to comprehend social and economic issues and find viable answers. It engages in market research, labor market analysis, insurance forecasting, economic development, and social planning. People in South Asian countries work for private and public institutions at local, regional, national, and international levels. This research deals with the language learning of child acquisition and its influence on demographic elements, and the most crucial element in this discussion is the various implications on South Asia countries and the results of a research study conducted among private and government students (N=500) who are studying in different Muslim and nonMuslims schools of Lahore, Pakistan. This study investigates the effect of demographic factors on children's language acquisition at the middle level all over Asian countries. The researchers developed a questionnaire that contained 40 items, 37 are close-ended and 3 are open-ended. Quantitative and descriptive statistics with SPSS software are employed to investigate the effect of all demographic factors on the language learning process of children. The results indicate the pertinent findings against each major construct/theme such as age, gender, parents' (income, status, education, background, and occupation), social and economic context, rural and urban society, and cultural influence. It also shows that each factor has a deep influence on language acquisition among middle-level students, and Asian countries are affected a lot. This study investigates the short- and long-term effects of demographic variables on the language acquisition of South Asian children.
Topic:
Demographics, Education, Children, Language, and Students
Political Geography:
Pakistan and South Asia