How has Security, Relations, and Regional alliances in South Asia been affected the return of the Taliban?así

Abstract

The resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan has profoundly transformed the geopolitical dynamics of South Asia, intensifying longstanding rivalries and exacerbating regional security challenges. This thesis investigates the impact of the Taliban’s return to power on the triangular relationship between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, with a particular focus on security, alliances, and state behaviour. Employing the theoretical frameworks of realism and securitisation, the study explores how systemic pressures and constructed security narratives have shaped the policies and interactions of these states. Through a detailed analysis of the historical and contemporary relationships between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and India and Afghanistan, this research highlights the complexities of regional geopolitics. Pakistan’s pursuit of “strategic depth” and support for the Taliban has been undermined by the resurgence of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and unresolved issues such as the Durand Line. Meanwhile, India’s recalibration of its Afghan policy reflects its efforts to counter Pakistan’s influence and mitigate security risks posed by a Taliban-led Afghanistan. The interplay between these dynamics underscores the fragility of South Asia’s security environment, characterised by cross-border terrorism, refugee flows, and the potential for escalating conflict. The findings demonstrate how realism explains the strategic behaviour of Pakistan and India within an anarchic international system, while securitisation theory provides a lens to understand how security threats are framed to justify extraordinary measures. By linking theoretical insights to real-world developments, this thesis contributes to the understanding of state behaviour and regional security in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape. This research concludes by emphasising the importance of collaborative approaches and nuanced policies to address the multifaceted challenges posed by the Taliban’s resurgence. It also identifies areas for future research, including the role of external actors and the internal dynamics of Afghanistan under Taliban rule, to better comprehend the trajectory of South Asian geopolitics.