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Theory of Self‐Determination: A Viable Solution for the Kashmir Conflict

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  • Muhammad Waqas Haider

Abstract

This study critically examines the longstanding rivalry between two South Asian nuclear powers, Pakistan and India, with a focus on the Kashmir conflict. It proposes a viable resolution grounded in the theoretical framework of self‐determination. The analysis explores the case for self‐determination in Kashmir by investigating key factors, including persistent oppression and injustice, widespread popular uprisings supported by the local population, and the repeated failure of conflict resolution and reconciliation strategies to achieve an amicable solution. It also evaluates potential pathways for resolving the Kashmir conflict, emphasizing both bilateral approaches and multilateral or United Nations‐mediated frameworks. The findings indicate that the principle of self‐determination provides a robust foundation for resolving this protracted social conflict. However, the prospects for a bilateral resolution appear limited, as the status quo largely benefits India, the dominant actor in the dispute. While multilateral approaches offer greater potential for implementation, they face significant challenges. The study concludes by emphasizing the necessity for Pakistan and India to adopt a comprehensive and integrated strategy that prioritizes self‐determination as a means to foster mutual trust and ensure peaceful coexistence in the region. 本研究批判性地审视了南亚两个核大国巴基斯坦和印度之间的长期竞争, 重点关注克什米尔冲突。它提出了一种基于自决理论框架的可行解决方案。该分析通过调查关键因素探讨了克什米尔自决的案例, 包括持续的压迫和不公正、当地民众支持的大规模民众起义以及冲突解决和和解战略一再未能达成友好解决方案。它还评估了解决克什米尔冲突的潜在途径, 强调双边方法和多边或联合国调解框架。研究结果表明, 自决原则为解决这一长期社会冲突提供了坚实的基础。然而, 双边解决的前景似乎有限, 因为现状主要有利于争端中的主要参与者印度。虽然多边方法提供了更大的实施潜力, 但它们面临着重大挑战。研究最后强调, 巴基斯坦和印度必须采取全面综合的战略, 将自决作为促进相互信任和确保该地区和平共处的手段。 Este estudio examina críticamente la prolongada rivalidad entre dos potencias nucleares del sur de Asia, Pakistán e India, centrándose en el conflicto de Cachemira. Propone una solución viable basada en el marco teórico de la autodeterminación. El análisis explora los argumentos a favor de la autodeterminación en Cachemira mediante la investigación de factores clave, como la persistente opresión e injusticia, los levantamientos populares generalizados apoyados por la población local y el fracaso reiterado de las estrategias de resolución de conflictos y reconciliación para lograr una solución amistosa. También evalúa las posibles vías para resolver el conflicto de Cachemira, haciendo hincapié tanto en los enfoques bilaterales como en los marcos multilaterales o con mediación de las Naciones Unidas. Los hallazgos indican que el principio de autodeterminación proporciona una base sólida para resolver este prolongado conflicto social. Sin embargo, las perspectivas de una solución bilateral parecen limitadas, ya que el statu quo beneficia en gran medida a India, el actor dominante en la disputa. Si bien los enfoques multilaterales ofrecen un mayor potencial de implementación, enfrentan desafíos significativos. El estudio concluye enfatizando la necesidad de que Pakistán y la India adopten una estrategia integral que priorice la autodeterminación como medio para fomentar la confianza mutua y garantizar la coexistencia pacífica en la región.

Suggested Citation

  • Muhammad Waqas Haider, 2025. "Theory of Self‐Determination: A Viable Solution for the Kashmir Conflict," World Affairs, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 188(2), April.
  • Handle: RePEc:wly:woraff:v:188:y:2025:i:2:n:e12071
    DOI: 10.1002/waf2.12071
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