REGIONAL POWER STRUCTURE AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS IN SAARC: AN ASSESSMENT OF MEMBERS’ HOPES AND FEARS (1985–2015)

Abstract

The paper holds that institutional structures of intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) mirror
the fears and hopes of their members as well as the power structure of the contemporary world.
It examines the organizational setup and institutional development of the South Asian
Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) since its inception in 1985. The paper also surveys
as to how and to what extent power structure in South Asia and members’ national interests,
priorities, fears, concerns, hopes, and aspirations influence institutional structures of SAARC. The
process shows an interminable competition between India and other members, each striving to
advance its goals. India strives to consolidate its dominance in the region while other members
try to evade it. India because of its huge size and vital position emerges triumphant in the
contest. Institutional arrangements of SAARC manifest profoundly regional power structure that
favours India to promote its interests far more than other regional states.