SCO: Promoting Peace and Stability in Asia
- Headquarters: Secretariat in Beijing, China; RATS Executive Committee in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- Established in: 15 June, 2001
- Member States: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Iran, India, and China
- Languages: Chinese and Russian
- Secretary General: Zhang Ming
- Website: www.sectsco.org
Overview
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) stands as a significant regional multilateral organization that encompasses some of the most dynamic and influential nations in Eurasia. Formed in 2001, the SCO has steadily evolved into a platform for fostering political, economic, and security cooperation among its member states. With its roots in Central Asia, the SCO has expanded its scope to address broader regional and global challenges. This article by Academic Block dive into the history, objectives, structure, achievements, challenges, and future prospects of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)?
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a regional intergovernmental organization focused on political, economic, security, and cultural cooperation among its member states.
It was established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China, by six founding countries:
- China
- Russia
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Uzbekistan
The SCO has expanded over the years, adding new members and enhancing its influence in Eurasian affairs.
History and Evolution of the SCO
The roots of the SCO date back to 1996, when China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan formed the "Shanghai Five" to improve border security and military trust.
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In 2001, Uzbekistan joined the group, leading to the official creation of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
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Over time, the SCO expanded its agenda beyond security to include economic cooperation, counterterrorism, cultural exchanges, and global diplomacy.
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The biggest expansion took place in 2017, when India and Pakistan became full members.
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In 2023, Iran joined as a full member, further strengthening the organization.
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Belarus is expected to become a full member in 2024.
Formation and Expansion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
Objectives of the SCO
The SCO is based on the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, and peaceful cooperation. Its key objectives include:
(i) Strengthening Regional Security
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Counterterrorism, extremism, and separatism are top priorities.
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The SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) helps coordinate counterterrorism efforts.
(ii) Economic Cooperation and Trade
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SCO promotes economic integration, trade facilitation, and investment among member states.
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China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aligns with SCO’s economic goals.
(iii) Cultural and Humanitarian Cooperation
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Member states collaborate on education, technology, healthcare, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
(iv) Promoting a Multipolar World
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The SCO supports a world order based on sovereign equality, non-interference, and diplomatic negotiations rather than Western-led alliances.
Members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
(i) Full Members (as of 2023)
(ii) Observer States
Country
- Afghanistan
- Belarus (expected full membership in 2024)
- Mongolia
(iii) Dialogue Partners
Organizational Structure of the SCO
The SCO has a well-defined structure to ensure smooth decision-making and implementation of policies:
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SCO Heads of State Council (HSC) : The highest authority that makes key policy decisions.
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SCO Heads of Government Council (HGC) : Focuses on economic policies, trade agreements, and budget.
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Council of Foreign Ministers : Handles diplomatic affairs and foreign policy coordination.
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SCO Secretariat (Beijing, China) : The administrative body managing day-to-day operations.
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Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) (Tashkent, Uzbekistan) : Coordinates counterterrorism efforts among member states.
Shanghai Cooperation Organization Purpose
Role of SCO in Global Security and Counterterrorism
One of the main goals of the SCO is to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
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The SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) helps coordinate intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism operations.
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SCO members conduct joint military exercises to improve defense cooperation.
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The organization has helped maintain stability in Central Asia, especially in areas affected by terrorism and insurgency.
Economic and Trade Cooperation within the SCO
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China and Russia lead economic projects, while India, Pakistan, and Central Asian countries contribute to regional trade.
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The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) plays a key role in improving infrastructure and connectivity within SCO nations.
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Energy cooperation is a major focus, as countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Iran are rich in oil and natural gas.
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The SCO is working on a single payment system to reduce dependence on the US dollar in trade.
Challenges Faced by the SCO
While the SCO is a powerful organization, it faces several challenges:
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Geopolitical Rivalries :
- India and Pakistan have historical conflicts, which sometimes affect SCO meetings.
- China and India have border disputes that impact cooperation.
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Diverging Economic Interests : The economic priorities of different members vary, slowing down agreements.
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Security Concerns in Afghanistan : The Taliban-led Afghanistan poses security risks for SCO members, especially Central Asian countries.
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Western Pressure and Sanctions : Some SCO members (Russia, Iran, China) face sanctions from Western countries, affecting their economic activities.
Future of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
Despite challenges, the SCO is expanding its influence in global affairs.
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Expansion Plans : Belarus is set to become a full member, and more countries may join as observers or dialogue partners.
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Economic Integration : Increased focus on trade agreements, digital economy, and financial independence from the West.
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Security and Counterterrorism : Continued military cooperation and border security enhancement.
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Strategic Partnerships : Closer ties with BRICS, ASEAN, and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Final Words
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a powerful regional alliance shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of Eurasia. With its strong focus on security, trade, and diplomatic cooperation, the SCO continues to expand its influence, making it a key player in global politics. As it grows, the SCO faces challenges, but its ability to adapt and strengthen cooperation will determine its future success. Hope you liked this article by Academic Block, please provide your valuable comments to make this article better. Thanks for Reading!
Questions and answers related to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO):
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a Eurasian intergovernmental alliance of 10 member states that collaborates on political, economic, and security issues. It aims to strengthen stability, promote regional development, and enhance cooperation against threats such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
SCO was established on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai, by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, evolving from the earlier “Shanghai Five” mechanism.
The Secretariat of the SCO is headquartered in Beijing, China. Its Executive Committee of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
As of early 2025, SCO had ten members. But previously the “nine members” referred to: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, and Iran (before Belarus joined in 2024).
Pakistan officially became a full member of SCO on 9 June 2017, during the Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. Before that, it had been an Observer since 2005.
The main motive of SCO is to enhance regional peace, security and stability among its member states via cooperation in counterterrorism, trade, energy, culture, and infrastructure. SCO also seeks to uphold a new, democratic, just and rational international political and economic order.
SCO currently has 10 full member states: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus. There are also observer states and dialogue partners.
The 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit will be held in China, hosted in the city of Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, 2025. This high-level meeting will bring together leaders of 10 member states to discuss security, trade, energy, connectivity, and regional stability across Eurasia.
The SCO Summit stands for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit, an annual high-level meeting where heads of member states discuss regional security, economic cooperation, trade, energy, and cultural exchanges. It serves as the main decision-making forum to strengthen strategic trust and address shared geopolitical challenges in Eurasia.
Belarus officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in 2024, becoming its 10th full member. This expansion highlights the SCO’s growing geopolitical influence across Eurasia and reflects its role in uniting major regional powers for stronger security, economic connectivity, and diplomatic cooperation within the global multipolar framework.
The SCO currently has 10 full members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus. Alongside members, the organization also includes observer states like Afghanistan and dialogue partners, expanding its reach and influence across Eurasia, South Asia, and the Middle East.
The SCO’s purpose is to strengthen regional security, combat terrorism, extremism, and separatism, and enhance economic, cultural, and technological cooperation among members. It seeks to promote stability across Eurasia, support sustainable development, and foster multipolarity in international relations while balancing the influence of Western-led organizations.
Critics argue that the SCO lacks transparency, has limited institutional structure, and is dominated by China and Russia. Some view it as an anti-Western bloc, while others highlight slow progress in trade liberalization. Concerns about differing national interests often hinder the implementation of joint initiatives.
As of 2025, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has 10 full members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus. This expansion demonstrates its rising role as a major Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance influencing regional and global affairs.
The SCO’s main goals include combating terrorism, ensuring regional peace, enhancing energy cooperation, promoting economic integration, and fostering cultural exchanges. It aims to create a stable Eurasian order by aligning development strategies, encouraging connectivity projects, and strengthening a multipolar global governance system.
Key SCO initiatives include the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), energy partnerships, digital economy projects, and the expansion of transport corridors like the Belt and Road Initiative. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity, ensure security, and promote collective growth across Eurasian nations.
Unlike ASEAN, which is focused mainly on Southeast Asia, or the G7, which is Western-led, the SCO unites major Eurasian powers across security and economy. It emphasizes counterterrorism and multipolarity, with members like China, Russia, and India, distinguishing it as a unique strategic bloc.
Main areas of cooperation within the SCO
Security Cooperation: One of the primary areas of cooperation within the SCO is security. Member states collaborate on counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and joint military exercises to address common security threats such as terrorism, extremism, and separatism. The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, serves as the main mechanism for coordinating these efforts.
Economic Cooperation: The SCO promotes economic cooperation among member states through initiatives aimed at facilitating trade, investment, and infrastructure development. Efforts to enhance connectivity, including transportation and energy projects, are central to the SCO’s economic agenda. The organization also supports initiatives such as the SCO Business Council and the Interbank Consortium to promote business and financial cooperation among member states.
Cultural Exchange and People-to-People Contacts: Cultural exchange and people-to-people contacts are essential components of SCO cooperation. Member states engage in various cultural and educational exchange programs to foster mutual understanding and friendship among their peoples. These initiatives encompass activities such as academic exchanges, cultural festivals, language programs, and youth forums.
Political Dialogue and Diplomatic Cooperation: The SCO provides a platform for political dialogue and diplomatic cooperation among member states. Regular meetings of heads of state, heads of government, and foreign ministers facilitate discussions on regional and global issues of mutual interest. The organization also promotes diplomatic coordination and collaboration on matters such as regional security, conflict resolution, and international relations.
Regional Development and Integration: The SCO seeks to promote regional development and integration by supporting initiatives that enhance connectivity, infrastructure development, and economic cooperation among member states. Efforts to harmonize trade regulations, streamline customs procedures, and promote investment create favorable conditions for sustainable development and prosperity in the region.
History of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO
1990s: Emergence of Regional Cooperation: The seeds of the SCO were sown in the mid-1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the emergence of independent Central Asian states. During this period, China, Russia, and the Central Asian nations began exploring avenues for cooperation to promote stability, security, and economic development in the region.
1996: Establishment of the Shanghai Five: In 1996, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan formed the Shanghai Five mechanism. The primary focus of this framework was on border security and confidence-building measures among the member states. The name “Shanghai Five” derived from the group’s inaugural meeting in Shanghai, China.
Early 2000s: Transformation into the SCO: The Shanghai Five mechanism laid the groundwork for deeper regional cooperation, leading to the formal establishment of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation on June 15, 2001. The leaders of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan signed the SCO Charter in Shanghai, marking the transformation of the Shanghai Five into a full-fledged regional organization.
Objectives and Principles: The SCO’s objectives, as articulated in its charter, include promoting mutual trust, good neighborliness, and cooperation in various fields such as politics, security, economy, culture, and technology. The organization operates based on principles of sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual respect for territorial integrity.
Expansion of Membership: Since its inception, the SCO has expanded its membership and influence. In 2017, India and Pakistan joined the organization as full members, elevating its geopolitical significance. Additionally, Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia hold observer status, while several other nations participate as dialogue partners, reflecting the SCO’s growing network and outreach.
Focus Areas of Cooperation: Over the years, the SCO has focused on various areas of cooperation, including security, counterterrorism, economic integration, cultural exchange, and diplomatic dialogue. The organization’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) serves as a key mechanism for coordinating counterterrorism efforts among member states.
Achievements and Challenges: The SCO has made significant strides in promoting regional stability, security, and development. However, it also faces challenges such as divergent national interests, complex regional dynamics, and limited institutional capacity, which require concerted efforts to overcome.
How does the SCO interact with other Organizations
Dialogue and Cooperation: The SCO maintains regular dialogue and cooperation with a wide range of international organizations, including the United Nations (UN), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Through high-level meetings, joint initiatives, and information sharing, the SCO collaborates with these organizations on common areas of interest such as security, counterterrorism, and regional development.
Participation in Multilateral Forums: The SCO participates in various multilateral forums and platforms to exchange views, share experiences, and coordinate actions on regional and global issues. These forums include the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), among others. Participation in such forums allows the SCO to contribute to broader discussions on regional cooperation, security, and economic integration.
Joint Initiatives and Projects: The SCO collaborates with other international organizations on joint initiatives and projects aimed at addressing common challenges and promoting sustainable development. For example, the SCO partners with the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and other development institutions on infrastructure projects, capacity-building programs, and initiatives to enhance connectivity and economic integration in the region.
Coordination on Security Issues: Given its focus on security cooperation, the SCO coordinates with other international organizations, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism, transnational crime, and border security. The organization shares intelligence, conducts joint exercises, and exchanges best practices with partners such as Interpol, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to address common security threats effectively.
Promotion of Multilateralism: The SCO advocates for multilateralism and the principles of international law in its interactions with other international organizations. By promoting dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among nations, the SCO contributes to the strengthening of the multilateral system and the resolution of global challenges through collective action.
Contribution of SCO to regional security
Counterterrorism Cooperation: The SCO prioritizes counterterrorism cooperation among member states to address the threat posed by terrorism, extremism, and separatism. Member states exchange intelligence, conduct joint counterterrorism exercises, and coordinate operations to disrupt terrorist networks and prevent terrorist activities within the region.
Intelligence Sharing: The SCO facilitates intelligence sharing among member states to enhance early warning capabilities and respond effectively to security threats. Information exchange on terrorist activities, illicit trafficking, and other transnational crimes enables member states to coordinate their efforts and take preemptive measures to mitigate security risks.
Joint Military Exercises: The SCO organizes joint military exercises, such as the “Peace Mission” series, to enhance interoperability and cooperation among member states’ armed forces. These exercises promote mutual trust, build capacity, and demonstrate the collective resolve of SCO member states to address common security challenges.
Border Security Cooperation: Border security cooperation is a key focus area for the SCO, given the shared borders among member states. The organization facilitates dialogue and cooperation on border management, border security, and cross-border crime prevention to ensure stability and security along international borders.
Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): The SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, serves as the main mechanism for coordinating counterterrorism efforts among member states. RATS facilitates information exchange, joint operations, and capacity-building initiatives to combat terrorism, extremism, and separatism effectively.
Confidence-Building Measures: The SCO promotes confidence-building measures among member states to reduce tensions and prevent conflicts in the region. Regular high-level meetings, diplomatic exchanges, and cultural exchanges foster mutual trust and understanding, contributing to a conducive environment for regional security and stability.
Conflict Resolution and Mediation: The SCO provides a platform for dialogue and mediation to address regional conflicts and disputes through peaceful means. Member states engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts, promote reconciliation, and prevent the escalation of tensions, thereby contributing to regional peace and stability.
Significance of India and Pakistan joining SCO
Expanded Regional Influence: With India and Pakistan as full members, the SCO’s geographical reach extends beyond Central Asia, encompassing South Asia. This expansion enhances the SCO’s influence and relevance as a regional organization with broader geopolitical implications.
Enhanced Security Cooperation: India and Pakistan’s membership in the SCO offers opportunities for enhanced security cooperation within the region. Both countries face common security challenges such as terrorism, extremism, and separatism, which the SCO addresses through joint efforts and collaboration. Their participation in SCO initiatives strengthens the organization’s capacity to address these threats effectively.
Potential for Conflict Resolution: The SCO provides a platform for India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual interest, including regional security and conflict resolution. While longstanding bilateral disputes remain, the SCO offers a forum for constructive engagement and confidence-building measures, which could contribute to easing tensions and promoting stability in South Asia.
Economic Opportunities: India and Pakistan’s membership in the SCO opens up opportunities for economic cooperation and integration within the region. The SCO’s initiatives to promote trade, investment, and infrastructure development create avenues for economic growth and development, benefiting member states and fostering greater regional connectivity.
Diplomatic Engagement: Participation in the SCO enables India and Pakistan to engage diplomatically with other member states and dialogue partners on a wide range of issues, including political, economic, and cultural cooperation. The SCO serves as a forum for building mutual trust, fostering dialogue, and exploring areas of cooperation that contribute to regional peace and stability.
Academic References on the SCO
- Baabar, B., & Grodeland, Å. B. (Eds.). (2012). Mongolia and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Economic, Security and Legal Dimensions. Brill.
- Blank, S. (Ed.). (2008). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Eurasian Geopolitics: New Directions, Perspectives, and Challenges. Strategic Studies Institute, U.S. Army War College.
- Khurshudov, A. (Ed.). (2015). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Eurasia’s Security Landscape. Palgrave Macmillan.
- Li, X. (2010). China and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: A Doubled-Edged Sword. Ashgate Publishing.
- Lu, Z. (2018). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Global Security: Cooperation and Conflict Management. Routledge.
- Li, Y. (2016). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: A vehicle for China’s regional and global ambitions. The Chinese Journal of Global Governance, 2(1), 1-22.
- Lukin, A. (2010). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: A Multilateral Regional Mechanism for Containing China? The China Quarterly, 201, 828-844.
- Mankoff, J. (2006). The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Assessing the SCO’s role in Central Asia and Beyond. Central Asia-Caucasus Institute Silk Road Studies Program, 1-29.