South Asia's weak states

South Asia, which consists of eight states of different sizes and capabilities, is characterized by high levels of insecurity at inter-state, intra-state, and human level: insecurity that is manifest in both traditional and non-traditional security problems, especially transnational terrorism fuelled by militant religious ideologies. To explain what has caused and contributed to perpetual insecurity and human suffering in the region, this book engages scholars of international relations, comparative politics, historical sociology, and economic development to reveal and analyze key underlying and proximate drivers. They argue that problems are driven largely by two critical variables: the presence of weak states and weak cooperative interstate norms. Based on analysis and conclusions drawn, the book recommends specific policies for making the region secure and for developing the long lasting inter- and intra-state cooperative mechanisms necessary for security.