INDIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS: CONFLICT AND COOPERATION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF CONSTRUCTIVISM

Abstract

Rivalry between India and Pakistan has been a major cause of concern regarding peace in the two states from 1947. There are different theories that explain the approach towards peaceful resolution of such conflicts. Initially, the post-colonial theories took center stage, but the development of constructivism has made the peace-making process easy. Pakistan, being a small state as compared to India, has always tried to maintain peaceful relationship with India for the security of region. But because of India’s’ desire to became hegemon in the region of South Asia both countries had to fight three wars but could not be settled major issues between both peacefully, besides, India has the largest geographical area in the whole of South Asia and borders with all states in the region but has not been able maintain peaceful relationship with the other countries too other than Pakistan. A review of the historical connection between Pakistan and India reveals that the animosity is caused by deeply ingrained differences in beliefs, values, and customs, rather than by tangible things (such as territorial disputes or nuclear weapons). The constructivism theory, therefore, acts to motivate all actors towards profitable and constructive relations that are practically peaceful conflict resolution methods. Hence, constructivism theory presents the best approach to India-Pakistan conflict on Kashmir.