The theoretical advantages of regional integration are manifold. However, in the South Asian context, the effectiveness of the benefits associated with regional integration constitutes only part of the purpose behind conducting this study. An in-depth analysis of the functioning of the SAARC reveals that there has been only limited progress in the successful operations of the organization. It provokes the question as to why the SAARC has failed to make notable achievements during the many years of its existence. The major reasons that one can conclude that are behind the failure of the organization includes mistrust amongst various nations for instance India and Pakistan, interstate conflicts, lack of political will amongst member states, insufficient resources in terms of finances that are necessary for the running of SAARC initiatives, and the absence of effective measures of empowerment of the secretariat amongst others.
Nevertheless, despite its failures, the SAARC has made notable achievements since its conceptualization as a regional institution for enhancing cooperation amongst south Asian nations since the first summit of 1985 held in Dhaka. Some of the notable achievements made by the SAARC include efforts that have contributed to the reduction of poverty in the south Asian region, the provision of educational opportunities to South Asians, promotion of trade, enhanced cooperation in the energy sector, promotion of exchange programs amongst various personnel in the region, counter-terrorism measures and the facilitation of enhanced food security in the region