In the contemporary literary landscape, where globalization has ostensibly bridged gaps between cultures and narratives, the dissemination of Indian English literature through Western publishing houses has cast a long shadow, particularly over countries like Bangladesh. Let’s dive into the complex labyrinth of this literary exchange, focusing on how Western-backed Indian writers’ books, including non-fiction, are…
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The international community has not forgotten the numerous instances of the US violating Pakistani airspace under the pretext of targeting radical militants, yet there has been no comparable Pakistani retaliation against US interests. Given the current tensions with three of its four neighbours—India, Afghanistan, and now Iran—it would be imprudent for Pakistan to let the situation escalate, as this could invite interference from these powerful neighbours and extra-regional actors.
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For the US, addressing these proxy conflicts presents multifaceted challenges. Morally, the US must navigate the complexities of engaging in regions with high civilian densities and intricate political landscapes. Financially, sustained military engagements demand significant resources, with an ever-present need to justify these expenditures to both domestic and international audiences.
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The strategic rationale for NATO’s enlargement was rooted in both idealism and realpolitik. Proponents argued that expanding NATO would consolidate a Europe “whole and free,” ensuring ‘’stability and democracy’’ in regions historically susceptible to authoritarianism. However, critics contended that this rationale failed largely when the war in the Balkans broke out in the late 1990s and the enlargement was considered a provocative move, encircling Russia and undermining its regional security interests. This dichotomy between Western aspirations for a hegemonic international order and Russia’s perception of encirclement set the stage for the geopolitical discord that would eventually manifest in the war in Ukraine.
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This maneuver by the Houthis has precipitated a crisis in the US’s hegemonic status. America’s foremost objective has been to contain the Israel-Palestine conflict, preventing its escalation into a full-fledged regional war. However, the involvement of the Houthis, coupled with Hezbollah’s participation, transforms the conflict into a regional affair, albeit one restrained by diplomatic efforts and international pressure.
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Recent developments in the region underscore the urgency of this call for a pan-Arab fraternity movement. The Arab world continues to grapple with complex geopolitical challenges, often exacerbated by external influences. While there have been instances of attempts to unite Arab nations and peoples, they have often fallen short due to internal divisions and the imposition of foreign ideologies. To address these issues effectively, it is imperative to foster a sense of shared identity and purpose that transcends sectarian and national boundaries, and this can be achieved through a pan-Arab fraternity movement.
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The proposed “Augmentation Theory” or “Augmentism” represents a comprehensive approach to geostrategy that integrates key elements from the Theory of Defensive Realism, the Theory of Balance of Power, the Theory of Neoclassical Realism, and the Theory of Liberal Institutionalism. Augmentism is a very delicate balancing act that will seek to work only on the positive and sustainable growth of international relations, not otherwise, but one that can lead an emerging power into a more secure and influential position in the global arena.
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The crisis in Myanmar poses a significant threat to Bangladesh’s national security. The influx of refugees, the spillover of violence, and the potential for regional instability all contribute to the urgency of addressing this issue. Bangladesh must tread carefully in its dealings with the various warring factions in Myanmar and northeastern India, while also strengthening its border security and defense capabilities. Additionally, working closely with international partners is crucial to effectively address the crisis in Myanmar and protect Bangladesh’s interests.
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The compromised state of civil society in Bangladesh is disconcerting. It has destroyed civil society’s ability to function as a robust, neutral, and independent watchdog. Furthermore, civil society has not only depleted the country’s profound cultural heritage but has also birthed security and sovereignty challenges. The Rohingya crisis serves as a poignant example where civil society, buoyed by Western and local media, pressured the government to shelter Rohingyas, compromising the nation’s security.
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The influence of external actors, including former colonial powers and international corporations, are skewign the priorities of Bangladesh. These influences often reinforce a narrow conception of democracy, emphasizing electoral processes over the broader democratic principles of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity. As a result, the potential of democracy to serve as a vehicle for social justice is compromised, and the concept becomes a tool for maintaining the status quo rather than a means of transformation.
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