From Conflict to Reconciliation: Sport as a Diplomatic tool between Pakistan and India

Author(s) : Muhammad Asad Raza, Dr. Ghulam Mustafa

Abstract:

The relationship between Pakistan and India has been marked by chronic events, jurisdictional disagreements and geopolitical tensions leading to never ending hostility. Sports diplomacy somehow worked as a diplomatic bridge in easing tensions and fostering confidence building measures. This research work aims to explore the achievements, limitations and capability of sports diplomacy between Pakistan and India as a tool in conflict resolution. The study aims to analyze sports diplomacy at broader International Relations, highlighting its potential as a soft power tool and cultural connectivity. Study also explores key historical events where cricket diplomacy proved to be an effective tool like in 1987 Zia's visit to India to watch a cricket match, resulting in easing military standoffs at the border. Other events like 2004-2005 cricket tours and 2011 semi-final served as backdoor channels in initiating political dialogues between Pakistan and India. This shows the potential of cricket in mitigating tensions, promoting dialogues and people to people connectivity. However research work also critically analyzes the limitations of sports diplomacy, examining how events like Mumbai attack in 2008 and Pulwama attack in 2019 led to suspension of diplomatic and sporting ties between them. Where the sports diplomacy between Pakistan and India stands is uncertain due to political reasons but still potential of sports cannot be ignored. Sports will certainly help both sides in improving bilateral relations if they resume cricket and other sports in future.