Strategic, Socio-Economic, and Environmental Issues Facing Asian Countries.

 Strategic, Socio-Economic, and Environmental Issues Facing Asian Countries.

The political and economic situation in Asian countries are complicated and rooted in a combination of historical, political, economic, and social factors. Despite vast human and natural resources, many Asian countries are still struggling to achieve lasting stability and prosperity. They find it difficult to achieve lofty objectives due to a combination of poor governance, external interference, internal divisions, and heavy reliance on foreign powers. This dependence on Western countries for military support, economic aid, and political backing has often come at the cost of their sovereignty, independence and economic development.

The Asian continent is diverse and expansive, encompassing regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, North Asia, and Southwest Asia. It is geographically connected to Europe, Australasia, and Africa, and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the east, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. Asia, however, faces a complex and fluid socio-economic, geopolitical, security, and development scenario. Compared to other regions of the world, Asia is deeply affected by political, territorial, ideological, and economic inequality. These issues, coupled with regional conflicts, extremism, and transnational terrorism, continue to hinder the continent’s progress. The ongoing violence and unrest in Kashmir, Iraq, Syria, Myanmar, and Palestine expose enduring prejudices, polarization, intolerance, and hatred, often rooted in religio-ethnic discrimination and extremism. Minorities in many Asian countries, including China, India, and Myanmar, face persecution. Hindus and Christians minorities in Pakistan also experiences serious discrimination. They are often denied the political, economic, and social rights guaranteed to them by their respective constitutions. These challenges, along with the unstable and uncertain socio-political environment, have squeezed economic activities in the region, impeding long-term development.

Multilateralism vs. Unilateralism

Unilateralism, once relegated to the dustbin of history after the Cold War, is making resurgence, undermining multilateral efforts that are vital for shared growth and prosperity in Asia. The long-lasting impact of the brutal policies of European powers and the United States has left deep scars, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The people of these regions continue to suffer, unable to fully recover or achieve economic stability. The “Great Game,” initiated by the United States in Afghanistan against the Soviet Union, devastated Afghanistan, and its repercussions reached the United States itself, especially when the 9/11 attacks occurred. The subsequent war in Afghanistan further destroyed the country. The US led wars in Iraq and Syria, supported by the UN and other Arab countries, resulted in massive loss of life and widespread destruction.

The Negative Impact of US and China Rialry.

The strained relations between the US and China, alongside the support each country receives from their respective allies, are creating significant uncertainty in Asia. The confrontational policies of both powers have direct consequences for many Asian nations, influencing both the geopolitical landscape and the economy. Moreover, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has had far-reaching economic consequences. While the war primarily affects Europe, its economic and social ramifications have spilled over to Asia, affecting energy prices, trade, and regional stability. The economic cost of the conflict is contributing to rising poverty and unemployment in many Asian countries.

Environmental and Climate Challenges.

Asia is also grappling with the drastic effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and increasingly frequent natural disasters such as floods are wreaking havoc on countries across the continent. These environmental issues not only threaten lives but also worsen the socio-economic conditions for millions of people already facing economic hardship.

Nuclear Tensions and Regional Conflicts

War Lie situation and tensions in South Asia remain high, with India and Pakistan, both nuclear powers on the brink of war over the Kashmir issue and water disputes. The Taiwan issue has also resurfaced as a potential flashpoint between China and the United States, drawing in regional powers and creating further instability. Both China and the U.S. are locked in a power struggle, with the U.S. rallying its European and Asian allies against China. Meanwhile, the Korean Peninsula remains in a state of tension, with historical conflicts continuing to shape the region’s security dynamics. The ideological divide between Arab countries and Iran, especially over nuclear issues, further complicates the situation in Southwest Asia. The political turmoil in Bangladesh and Nepal is also bringing serious tension between India and these countries.

Israel and the Gaza Conflict

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza, continues to escalate. Israel’s actions in Gaza, including the massacre of over 80,000 people, have sparked outrage in many parts of the world. The brutal attacks carried out by Israel and the U.S. against Iran have exposed the impotence of the Muslim Ummah and the ineffectiveness of the United Nations in resolving these issues. Israel’s growing diplomatic ties with Arab countries, coupled with its unchecked aggression, have raised questions about the role of regional powers like Turkey and the Arab states. Despite being a member of NATO, Turkey has shown little response to the real issues at hand, further underscoring the lack of unified action within the region. The blatant attack on Iran by Israel and US revealed the potency of Muslim countries of Asia. They attacked a Muslim country with impunity no other country could deter the attackers. The most docile ally of US Qatar was also attacked by Israel with impunity.

The Role of the U.S. and Global Hegemony

Across the continent, many Asian nations find themselves at the mercy of US imperialist and hegemonistic policies. While the U.S. maintains its influence through military alliances and economic leverage, countries in the Middle East, like those in the Arab world, remain embroiled in uncertainty. These nations, the world’s top importers of arms, are often left with weapons that they cannot effectively utilize, caught in a state of dependency on the West.

The Future of Asia

Russia, preoccupied with its conflict in Ukraine and its efforts to safeguard its integrity from NATO, is less focused on Asia, leaving China to pursue its own economic interests. However, it is the collective responsibility of all Asian countries to work together toward comprehensive socio-economic progress through dialogue and cooperation. Only through a unified and integrated approach can Asia overcome its challenges and secure a more stable, prosperous future for its people.

Prof Dr Qayum Mangi

Principal

College of Superior Services

Sukkur Sindh

WISH YOU GOOD LUCK