How did SAARC fail? Understanding the hindrances to its sustainability
Leaders of SAARC countries at the concluding session of 18th SAARC Summit (November 27, 2014). Photo Courtesy: Shivraj/Photo Division The term ‘cooperation’ in South Asian Association Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is entirely based on the respect of the five principles —sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence, non-interference in the internal affairs of the member states and mutual benefit. However, today, everyone knows that it is failing . It has been nine years since there has not been a regional SAARC summit , which indicates the failure of SAARC. SAARC can sustain only if there is mutual understanding between the member countries and to do so. But before that, it is better to understand the existing hindrances that have shadowed the achievements. Achievements so far There are some big achievements in a short period, which make SAARC a more effective and reputed regional cooperation body, which are defined below: SAFTA: SAARC introduced the South A...