ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the South Asian paradox. The actors associated with the regionalization process are enumerated. It then identifies both formal and informal monitoring initiatives conducted by an array of different agents: SAARC, European Union, civil society groups, SAARC member states, and media. It concludes the obstacles in the difficult path towards regional integration under the aegis of SAARC are pinpointed, which will pave the way an assessment of the possible future scenarios for the region. The initiative to found a regional organization aiming to increase economic and political cooperation came in 1981 through a 'Working Paper on Regional Cooperation in South Asia' sent by President Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh to his regional counter-parts. The distinctive character of civil society relies on the areas of social life the domestic world, the economic sphere, cultural activities and political interaction which are organized by private or voluntary arrangements between individuals and groups outside the direct control of state.
