South Asia Brief
News and analysis from India and its neighboring countries in South Asia, a region home to one-fourth of the world’s population. Delivered Thursday.
Why Sri Lanka’s Crisis Has No End in Sight
The turmoil driving unrest in Colombo and beyond has roots in the economic missteps of the last 20 years.
Can Modi Overcome India’s Ukraine Stance?
The Indian prime minister’s trip to Europe this week shows there is still room for deepening ties with the West.
South Asia’s Record-Breaking Heat Wave Isn’t Over Yet
The extreme weather in India and Pakistan is a sign of what’s to come for climate-vulnerable countries.
Russia Still Looms Over U.S.-India Relationship
As New Delhi avoids condemning Moscow’s war, Washington has hardened its rhetoric.
Political Crisis Heightens U.S.-Pakistan Tensions
Faced with a no-confidence vote, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan accused Washington of meddling—reflecting long-standing mistrust.
The Taliban Hard-Liners Are Winning
Draconian steps on girls’ education and press freedom are taking Afghanistan back to the 1990s.
Imran Khan Faces His Biggest Political Test Yet
Ruling party defectors could doom the Pakistani prime minister in a no-confidence vote.
The Missile Crisis That Wasn’t
India and Pakistan narrowly averted a security crisis while the world wasn’t looking, highlighting the risks of escalation in the region.
Oil Price Surge Will Hit South Asia Hard
As net importers, the region’s countries are particularly vulnerable to shocks from sanctions against Russia.
The Uttar Pradesh Elections Are a Referendum on BJP Rule
The ruling party is expected to win, but its future is also on the ballot in India’s most populous state.
What the Russia-Ukraine Crisis Means for South Asia
Putin’s invasion puts some countries in a diplomatic and economic bind.
Biden Hands the Taliban a Propaganda Victory
The executive order dividing Afghanistan’s frozen central bank assets has not earned Washington any goodwill.
Lata Mangeshkar Was a South Asian Icon
The beloved Indian singer, who died last weekend, reached audiences well beyond India—despite stirring some controversy.
India’s Economy Could Loom Large in State Elections
The latest budget doesn’t include immediate-term job creation projects despite high unemployment and recent unrest.
Why India Is Silent on the Ukraine Crisis
As in 2014, New Delhi’s close relations with both Moscow and Washington put it in a delicate diplomatic bind.
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