Issue Briefs

National Report by China in the 45th UPR Session: Hiding More than it Reveals
China’s report on human rights in the 45th session of the UPR on 23 January 2024 has drawn the attention of human rights activists worldwide. It has painted a rosy picture of the human rights situation within China.


Comments
Beyond Symbolism: Can Pakistan Become West Asia’s Net Security Stabiliser?
Mohmad Waseem Malla
This issue brief explores whether Pakistan can evolve from a traditional “security contractor” into West Asia’s net security stabiliser. The September 17, 2025, Saudi-Pakistan Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement marks a pivotal moment, formalising decades of military cooperation between the two countries. Historically, Pakistan has trained Gulf forces, guarded monarchies, and provided military personnel, often in transactional arrangements....
Nepal’s September Reckoning: How Gen Z is Rewiring Nepal’s Democracy
Afroz Khan
The comment analyses Nepal’s September 2025 Gen Z-led uprising that toppled Prime Minister K.P. Oli’s government. Triggered by a social media ban, the protests escalated into a nationwide revolt against corruption, inequality, and elite privilege.
Mutual Defence, Mutual Leverage: Decoding Pakistan–Saudi Security Agreement
Imran Khurshid
The Pakistan–Saudi Arabia Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in September 2025 marks a formal deepening of bilateral security ties, declaring that “any aggression against either country shall be considered aggression against both.” This pact reflects shifting
Bangladesh’s Democratic Crossroads: The Stakes of 2026 Elections
M.A. Hossain
The commentary explores Bangladesh’s fraught path to its 2026 national election, highlighting deep public mistrust, historical electoral dysfunction, and the volatile political climate following the 2024 uprising.