History:

 

The International Institute for South Asian Affairs (INSAF) was established in 1999 to promote socioeconomic, cultural and political activitiesamong the countries of South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka).Based in New York City, the Institute seeks to foster practical cooperation and friendship between South Asia and the United States. INSAF is founded on the principle that a regional perspective enhances rather than diminishes the national interests of the individual countries in South Asia.

The Institute is a direct outgrowth of the South Asia Forum, which was created in the early 1990's at the United Nations as an informal association of U.N. officials, diplomats and other interested individuals in the New York region devoted to the promotion of the economic, political and cultural development of the countries of South Asia.
The Institute serves as:

 

-A catalyst for action-oriented programs and research activities in socioeconomic development.

- An advocate of political reconciliation and promotion of human rights in the region.

- A forum for the exchange of information on cultural, educational and economic activities involving the people and countries of South Asia and the United States.

- A venue for visiting scholars, political figures, business leaders and cultural personalities from the region.