Revisiting Security Challenges of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Critical Literature Review

Abstract

The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been described as a transformative initiative under China’s Belt and Road framework, linking Kashgar in Xinjiang to Gwadar Port in Pakistan. While the corridor promises economic development and enhanced connectivity, its implementation has been persistently hindered by multifaceted security challenges. This paper examines the security dimensions of CPEC through a literature-based review. It identifies recurring themes, including insurgency in Balochistan, terrorism, sectarian and ethnic violence, Indo-Pakistani rivalry, external geopolitical competition, and governance-related weaknesses. The review also highlights underexplored areas, such as the role of climate change and community-level grievances, that demand further academic attention. The findings suggest that CPEC’s viability depends not only on physical security measures but also on broader political, socio-economic, and environmental strategies.