War, Minus the Shooting – the Political Impact of Defence Spending
This blog argues that defence spending is not always linked to military capability and has a political utility of its own
A Custom Uncovered: “Ghag”
This article explores the tribal custom of Ghag that has been practices in the Pakhtun-dominated regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for several hundred years.
The Downward Spiral – How Arms Control Died and How it Can be Reborn
This article argues that nuclear arms control is a good idea and that India and Pakistan have a mutual interest in pursuing it
Electronic Surveillance and Interception Laws in Pakistan
This article explores the statutes that regulate surveillance and interception in Pakistan, as well as the procedures that are adopted by law enforcement agencies.
A Two-Tier System: Afghan and Ukrainian Arrivals in the UK
On the anniversary of the Fall of Kabul, Mary Hunter investigates the differential treatment by the UK government towards Ukrainian and Afghan refugees, with the former arriving in greater numbers more quickly and with more support, despite the fact that many Afghans are at risk because of direct British involvement in Afghanistan. She posits that this two-tier system and the greater urgency expressed by the British public rests upon a Eurocentric and colonial mindset, which prioritises Ukrainian lives above those of Afghans. Ultimately, she concludes that these disparities are unacceptable and that Afghans are equally as deserving of British support as Ukrainians.
Sexual Violence in Indian-Occupied Kashmir
This article focuses on the role of Indian security forces in using counter-terrorism measures as an excuse to commit acts of sexual violence against Kashmiri women and highlights the system of impunity that protects them from accountability.
(Almost) Forty Years of Star Wars
A Republican, Reagan had come to power in 1981 as a hardline anti-Communist who was determined to re-assert American technological and military superiority after the gradual decline of the previous administration.
The Nelson Mandela Rules and the Criminal Justice System of Pakistan
18th July is the date of birth of Nelson Mandela, an African leader who spent lot of time in prison during his political struggle. Named after him, the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners have been styled, internationally, as the Nelson Mandela Rules.
The Long War
In this article, Alexander Lawson explores how Russia expected the conflict to unfold, the way it has in fact developed, and where things might go from here.
The Hidden Form of GBV: Economic Violence
This article explores one of the most common forms of gender-based violence (GBV) across the globe: financial and economic abuse