Assessing the Geopolitical Shifts in South Asia due to Climate Change: Analyzing the Brahmaputra River Basin (2010-2020)

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of climate change on the geopolitical dynamics of South Asia, focusing on India, China, and Bangladesh, which share the Brahmaputra River basin. The changing climate significantly affects these nations, with the political landscape of South Asia playing a crucial role in shaping regional dynamics. The Brahmaputra River basin is vulnerable to climate-induced challenges, such as altered river flow, increased flooding, and changes in sediment transport, which impact water resources and infrastructural development, influencing the social and economic well-being of the populations in these countries. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, the study combines climate models, hydrological data analysis, and geopolitical assessments to evaluate the effects of climate change on the Brahmaputra River basin and its implications for regional cooperation and conflict. The findings reveal that climate change exacerbates existing water-related challenges, leading to heightened flood risks, disrupted sediment transport, and strained water resources, threatening socio-economic stability. The research underscores the urgent need for collaborative strategies to address these impacts, emphasizing the importance of integrated water resource management to mitigate geopolitical tensions and promote regional stability.