Dhaka, Feb. 28 -- South Asia, home to nearly 2 billion people, is one of the most populous and culturally diverse regions in the world. Yet, despite its potential, the region remains fragmented by political tensions, economic disparities, and historical grievances. In contrast, Europe, once a continent ravaged by war, has transformed into a model of regional integration through the European Union (EU). The question arises: Can South Asia ever emulate the EU and achieve a similar level of cooperation and unity? While the idea is appealing, the path to a Europe-like South Asia is fraught with challenges.

The EU stands as a testament to the power of cooperation. Emerging from the ashes of World War II, European nations sought to prevent fut...