War Beyond Borders: The Unseen Consequences for South Asia’s Vulnerable

The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have far-reaching consequences that transcend borders and demographics. Nearly two billion people in South Asia are struggling to cope with the rising costs of living, driven by the region’s dependence on imported energy.

India is particularly exposed, importing 85% of its crude oil, making it one of the world’s largest importers. The ongoing war on Iran has choked supply routes and driven up costs, exacerbating India’s already precarious situation. In Pakistan, households are bearing the brunt of rising prices, with Sajida Jibran’s story a poignant example of the human cost. Her rent increased by nearly half in just a few months, forcing her to choose between feeding her children or paying for education.

The impact is not limited to these countries alone; Nepal’s dependence on India for fuel supplies means that disruptions in the Indian market can quickly feed through to Nepali households. In Bangladesh, Asma Begum struggles to make ends meet with meager earnings of around $41 per month. Her situation is far from unique – countless others like her feel helpless in the face of spiraling costs.

The irony is stark: while politicians and policymakers debate the merits of foreign policy decisions, it is the poor and vulnerable who are paying the price for conflicts that have nothing to do with them. Sajida Jibran’s poignant declaration – “My children did not attack Iran” – echoes the sentiments of countless others.

Historically, South Asia has been more vulnerable to external shocks due to its reliance on imported energy. The Gulf states’ decision to increase oil prices in 2003 had a devastating impact on regional economies, and the current crisis serves as a stark reminder that these countries are not immune to global market fluctuations.

South Asia’s policymakers must take urgent action to mitigate the effects of this crisis. Targeted subsidies for vulnerable populations and investments in renewable energy sources are essential to reduce dependence on imported fuels. While some measures have been announced, more needs to be done to shield households from rising costs.

For Sajida Jibran and countless others like her, the outcome is far from certain. As she struggles to put food on the table, her words serve as a stark reminder of the unseen consequences of war: “Financially, I feel completely helpless.” The burden of faraway politics weighs heavily on their shoulders, leaving them to wonder when – or if – things will get better.

The world watches as global powers jockey for position in the Middle East. Meanwhile, South Asia’s most vulnerable populations are left to grapple with the unforgiving realities of war. It is time for policymakers to acknowledge this reality and act decisively to protect those who bear the brunt of conflict – not just their own citizens, but also those across borders who share a common fate.