Hayat Ashraf

The Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 marked a significant turning point in the country's political and security landscape. After nearly two decades of U.S.-led military intervention following the September 11, 2001 attacks, the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan, signaling the end of the "War on Terror." This event has profound implications not only for Afghanistan but also for the region and global geopolitics. The Taliban emerged in the mid-1990s during Afghanistan’s civil war, following the Soviet Union's withdrawal. Comprising mainly Pashtun students from Pakistani madrasas, the Taliban promised peace, security, and the imposition of Islamic law in Afghanistan. By 1996, the group captured Kabul and established the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, implementing a strict interpretation of Sharia law that restricted women's rights, banned entertainment, and enforced public executions. However, after the 9/11 attacks, the United State...

The Rohingya refugee crisis is one of the most pressing humanitarian issues in recent decades, marked by widespread displacement, violence, and suffering of the Rohingya people, a Muslim minority group from Myanmar (formerly Burma). The crisis is rooted in a complex combination of historical, political, social, and religious factors, leading to a situation in which hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas have fled Myanmar in search of safety and better living conditions. The crisis has drawn global attention due to the scale of the suffering, the alleged human rights abuses, and the challenges faced by both the displaced people and the host countries. Background of the Rohingya People The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority primarily residing in the Rakhine State in western Myanmar, bordering Bangladesh. They have lived in Myanmar for centuries, but the Myanmar government does not recognize the Rohingyas as one of the country’s official ethnic groups. Instead, the government refers to the...

India’s position on the South China Sea (SCS) dispute is rooted in its broader geopolitical goals, economic interests, and strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region. As a rising global power with increasing maritime interests, India’s stance on this issue reflects its support for international law, its commitment to regional stability, and its strategic priorities, including freedom of navigation, the protection of sea lanes, and the prevention of the militarization of key maritime areas. India’s position is nuanced and carefully balanced, as it seeks to preserve its relations with China while reinforcing its influence within regional multilateral frameworks such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). India’s Strategic Interests in the South China Sea The South China Sea is one of the most important maritime regions globally, not only because it holds vast natural resources but also due to its role as a key shipping rout...

COVID-19 Pandemic and Vaccine Diplomacy The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as one of the most significant global health crises of the 21st century, affecting nearly every country in the world. As governments grappled with public health, economic, and social challenges, a key aspect of managing the crisis became the development, production, and distribution of vaccines. Alongside national efforts, the concept of vaccine diplomacy emerged, where countries used vaccines not only as a tool for public health but also as a form of international diplomacy and soft power. COVID-19 Pandemic: Global Crisis The COVID-19 pandemic began in December 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide, leading to millions of infections and deaths. Governments imposed strict lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures to curb the virus's spread. Health systems were overwhelmed, economies took a massive hit, and daily life was disrupted globally. In response to the pandemic, the global scientific commu...

India's maritime strategy is designed to protect its vast maritime interests, enhance its regional influence, and secure its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region. It is shaped by India's geopolitical objectives, economic needs, and security concerns. Some key components of India's maritime strategy are: 1. Maritime Security and Protection of Sea Lanes: India places significant emphasis on the protection of key maritime trade routes, especially the sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean. The Indian Ocean is a vital passage for global trade, and securing these lanes is crucial for India’s economic and national security. 2. Naval Modernization: India has focused on modernizing its navy, with an emphasis on increasing the capability and reach of the Indian Navy. This includes acquiring advanced naval platforms such as aircraft carriers, submarines (both nuclear and conventional), destroyers, frigates, and surveillance assets. The INS Vikrant, India'...

Blue Economy: Harnessing the Potential of Oceans for Sustainable Development The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs, while also preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. It emphasizes the economic benefits derived from oceans, seas, and coastal areas, including fisheries, shipping, tourism, renewable energy, and mineral resources, while ensuring their conservation and sustainability for future generations. Key Sectors of the Blue Economy 1. Fisheries and Aquaculture: Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture are central to the Blue Economy. Oceans provide food security and income for millions of people worldwide. The focus is on sustainable fishing practices, reducing overfishing, and managing marine ecosystems to ensure fish stocks are replenished for future generations. 2. Maritime Transport and Ports: Shipping and maritime trade are vital components of the Blue Economy. Ports serve as gateways for global tra...

Sagarmala Project: Boosting India's Maritime and Economic Growth The Sagarmala Project is an ambitious initiative launched by the Government of India in 2015 to modernize and develop the country’s maritime sector. The project is designed to harness the potential of India’s coastline, ports, and shipping sector to drive economic growth, promote international trade, improve logistics infrastructure, and create employment opportunities. It is expected to revolutionize India’s maritime trade and position the country as a major player in global shipping and trade routes. Key Objectives of the Sagarmala Project 1. Port Modernization and Expansion: The primary goal of the Sagarmala Project is to modernize existing ports and develop new deep-draft ports to accommodate larger vessels and increase capacity. India’s ports are seen as the gateway to the country’s global trade, and improving their efficiency is key to reducing logistics costs and boosting economic growth. 2. Coastal Shipping: O...