South Asia
The Foundation was established in Germany in 1958. It aims to promote the goal of making the principle of freedom valid for the dignity of all people and in all areas of society, both in Germany and abroad. The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom works in over 65 countries worldwide.
In South Asia, we have offices in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, we work with partners in Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. We promote civic education, training, and the exchange of ideas in the region, focusing on four areas: economic freedom, human rights, urban governance, and digital transformation. In addition to country-specific projects, the Foundation supports regional programs.
News
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US–India relations and the 2024 presidential elections: Continuity amidst change
Despite potential policy shifts, several factors underpin expectations of continuity in US–India relations. Foremost is the deepening strategic convergence between the two nations, particularly their shared concern over China's assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific region. This alignment transcends partisan divides in the US and provides a robust foundation for continuing cooperation.
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Pakistan’s Perspective on the 2024 U.S. Elections
Donald Trump’s first term (2017–2021) left U.S.-Pakistan relations in a fragile state by cutting $1.3 billion in security aid, accusing Pakistan of harboring militant groups, including the Taliban. This move strained bilateral ties and disrupted long-standing military training programs between the two countries. Additionally, Trump’s deepening ties with India through the Quad alliance have distanced Pakistan, positioning New Delhi as Washington’s preferred partner in South Asia, especially in countering China’s influence.
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Policy Pathways for Gender and Sexual Minorities in Asia: Reflections on Freedom and Dignity
India crossed an important milestone with the legal recognition of transgender individuals. However, there is still a need for greater political representation, better access to education and healthcare, and better protection of family rights for transgender individuals in the years to come.
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Research Papers on India's Democracy – Unpacking Resilience, Stability, and Lessons for Global Democracies
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Russia’s use of South Asian fighters in the Ukraine war
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Indian Perspective on Ukraine's Reconstruction
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Bangladesh July 2024: A Month of Protests, Frustrations, and Expectations
For about two weeks in July 2024, the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital, witnessed unprecedented protests and violent clashes between students and law enforcement.
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Ghoshtepe Canal Project in Afghanistan and the question of water security
The initial phase of the project built under the rule of the Taliban has run into criticism for poor construction, raising concerns about the professionalism and proficiency of the contractors.
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China Navigates a New Afghanistan with the Taliban as its Rulers
Chinese diplomats visiting Kabul, view the American withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Taliban takeover as the beginning of a “new era” of independent development and a transition from “chaos to order.”
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Democracy in Focus: A Snapshot in South Asia & Europe
The 2025 calendar project, titled "Democracy in Focus: A Snapshot in South Asia & Europe," aims to capture the essence and diversity of democratic practices in South Asia and Europe. Through this initiative, we seek to explore and celebrate how democracy is viewed and experienced differently across cultures, emphasizing its universal importance and the unique expressions it takes around the world.
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Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland: Why a high-level South Asian presence is important
“Peace for Ukraine” is the deepest yearning of citizens, diplomats, foreigners, active defenders and leaders facing the onslaught of the largest country in continental Europe. Even in the face of daily missile and drone strikes, they seek peace on their terms. Bilateral or multilateral talks focused on stopping the war against Ukraine have done little to resolve the crisis over the past two years.
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South Asian Perspectives on European Parliament (EP) Election 2024
Exploring South Asian perspectives on the 2024 European Parliament elections, as they navigate potential shifts in aid, trade, migration, and geopolitics.
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POWER BALANCE SOUTH ASIA
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Improving India–Europe Defence Cooperation: A New Arms Deal?
