The Pak-Afghan tribal stakeholders’ conference was organized by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), in collaboration with its Afghan partner Organization for Economic Studies and Peace (OESP), where 16 participants including tribal representatives, religious scholars, and commerce experts from both countries discussed and proposed pragmatic solutions for addressing bilateral issues concerning economic development, peace, and security, as well as the humanitarian and human rights situation in Afghanistan.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The dialogue largely discussed concerns and challenges of communities on the Chaman and Spin-Boldak sides of the border, guided by the agenda derived from a Qualitative Study of Pak-Afghan Border Communities conducted by CRSS as part of a feeder mechanism. In light of recent border incidents, particularly in the Chaman-SpinBoldak areas, participants and policymakers from both governments expressed appreciation for this initiative, citing its relevance and the significance of tribal leaders from these regions convening to address bilateral challenges. The conference, serving as a platform for dialogue, conveyed a message of bilateral harmony. Tribal elders from both countries demonstrated their willingness to engage in discussions on mutual contentions, signaling their advocacy for collaborative solutions and emphasizing the shared commitment to addressing challenges collectively.
The forum highlighted the imperative need for a regulated refugee policy, shedding light on the tensions arising from the recent policy shift resulting in the eviction of Afghan migrants. Economic impacts, trade concerns, and the illicit poppy trade were subjects of discussion. Tribal leaders called for action against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and emphasis on the significance of Afghan girls’ education reflected deeper socioeconomic and security considerations. The conference’s emphasis on including tribal representatives in bilateral discourse signaled a recognition of grassroots involvement in sustainable relations.
The complexities of the Pak-Afghan region require cooperative policies and diplomatic efforts to navigate and stabilize the tense bilateral ties, as suggested by the participating actors.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The participants proposed the following set of concrete recommendations in light of recent challenges impacting bilateral ties:
TRADE AND ECONOMY
- Stakeholders on both sides should encourage both governments and the international community to create alternative business opportunities for individuals engaged in daily business activities, particularly those affected by new visa policies.
- Policymakers on both sides should take measures to mitigate the economic impact of banning certain items and work on promoting smooth and timely communication between governments to avoid fines and losses for traders.
- Governments should seek international funding and assistance noting the potential for increased trade volume between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly focusing on regions like Chaman where 5 to 8 thousand people engage in daily business activities.
- Collaborate on governance reforms to improve the economic landscape, promoting stability and growth for businesses on both sides of the border.
PEACE AND SECURITY
- IEA should dissociate itself from all kinds of radical alliances and urgently address the issue of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other non-state actors.
- Scholars and tribal leaders on both sides must strengthen bilateral efforts to foster cooperation and understanding, recognizing that terrorism and divisive activities negatively impact relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
GIRLS’ EDUCATION AND WOMEN’S RIGHTS
- IEA must address the closure of girls’ educational institutions and deliver upon its promise to provide adequate facilities and an environment for girls and women to pursue their scholarly dreams
- The policymakers on both sides along with the assistance of international donors should work on the provision of essential facilities and infrastructure, including female teachers and washrooms, to overcome educational challenges in border areas of Chaman and Spin Boldak.
REFUGEE ISSUES
- Pakistan should work on the formulation and implementation of a regulated refugee policy, and ensure the periodic and dignified return of undocumented and displaced Afghans.
- The participants along with the help of CRSS should continue advocacy for dignified repatriation and rehabilitation of undocumented Afghans and urge the authorities to resume dialogue to come up with people-centric policies fostering bilateral ties.
GOVERNANCE, LAW AND ORDER
- Malpractices in customs, anti-narcotics, and other cross-border dealings should be discouraged by both sides.
- Formulate a comprehensive anti-narcotics vision and promote a drug-free economy in the region.
- The Government of Pakistan must take prompt action to address the concerning surge in poppy cultivation in the bordering areas of Chaman, subsequently facilitated by local drug lords transporting it to Afghanistan. A comprehensive and large-scale operation should be initiated to effectively curb poppy cultivation within Pakistan.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCUSSIONS
TRADE AND ECONOMY
Malak Abdul Khaliq Achakzai stated, “Communities on both sides of the borders are heavily dependent on cross-border trade. A large number of shopkeepers, traders, and businessmen cross the border every day from Chaman to Spin-Boldak.” Mr. Achakzai warned that if unforgiving and tough policies are practiced on borders, it will have a severe impact on the lives of both communities. He especially urged the Afghan government to emphasize more on the financial and social services of their nation. The recent sit-in in Chaman was also emphasized, in which hundreds and thousands of people gathered to say no to the recent passport policy implementation.
Cross-border trade is the only source of income, whether on the Torkham or Chaman side of the border. Billions of rupees are invested in cross-border trade by the people. There are no other opportunities for income in the concerned bordering communities, emphasized Mr. Naseer Ahmed Bacha Khan. He added, “For decades, cross-border trade has been becoming tougher day by day. On the other side, both the bordering groups share the same culture, religion, and socioeconomic practices, so it’s very much against international laws to separate interconnected societies. Both governments should focus on constructive and progressive policies in terms of trade between the two neighboring countries.”
A trader expressed concern, stating, “Our custom-cleared loaded containers are stopped at Karachi port without any valid reason. We request the government to have mercy on us.”
Mr. Shafiq Ahmad Hassan added, “We export most of our fresh fruits to Pakistan via the Torkham and Chaman border, which is again exploited through border closure whenever the fruit season is at its peak in Afghanistan. As a result, the Taliban banned chickens and 34 other edible items. But Afghans have never closed the borders for Pakistan in orange seasons.”
PEACE AND SECURITY
The participants observed that stable peace and security are fundamental pillars of society, directly influenced by socioeconomic and political activities, particularly in bordering areas. The Afghan delegation expressed satisfaction with the peace and security under the Taliban’s government, praising their efforts in achieving stability. On the contrary, tribal and religious leaders from the Pakistani side raised concerns about the alarming situation in the country, citing economic, political, and security challenges causing suffering due to inflation.
Maulana Qadar Looni shared insights from his recent visit to Kabul, noting discussions with Taliban officials about increasing tensions between Pak-Afghan forces. “The Taliban officials expressed goodwill towards Pakistan, aiming for healthier and stable relations,” he said. However, Looni raised a concern, stating, “I can guarantee from the Afghan side that there will be no violation of human rights at the borders and other unfortunate activities, but who is going to take the guarantee on this (Pakistan) side.” He observed that authorities on the Pakistan side exhibit a sense of apathy regarding peace and security in Afghanistan.
EVICTION OF UNDOCUMENTED AFGHAN MIGRANTS
An Afghan participant raised a significant concern about the Pakistani authorities’ exclusive focus on Afghan migrants, deeming it an “unfair and disrespectful approach”. He emphasized that Afghans have been residing in Pakistan for decades, contributing billions to various businesses and trades. The directive for Afghans to leave within one month was deemed particularly troubling.
Meanwhile, Mr. Achakzai highlighted Pakistan’s concerns over certain Afghans’ involvement in terrorist activities across the country. He asserted that Pakistan has the right to defend its territory against any threats to its sovereignty. “According to international laws, no one has the right to live in another country without proper documentation”, he concluded.
GIRLS EDUCATION AND WOMEN’S RIGHTS
All participants expressed unanimous concerns and shared their dismay over the ban on girls’ education imposed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA). Even religious leaders emphasized the importance of education for girls, asserting that no society can progress by depriving girls of education.
Mr. Looni revealed that during his recent visit to Kabul, he observed a noteworthy development wherein senior Taliban officials are increasingly bringing up the matter of girls’ education with the Amir ul Momineen. Looni characterized this as a positive aspect of the Afghan Taliban, highlighting their expressed concern regarding the nationwide prohibition on girls’ education. “The IEA stakeholders acknowledge the significance of girls’ education and emphasize its value in various aspects of life.”, he stated.
Note: On the sidelines of the dialogue, a participant requesting anonymity revealed that the IEA is in the final stages of developing a separate education system for girls in Afghanistan, expected to be functional by May 2024. “They are waiting for a satisfactory policy under Shariah law. Girls will have the opportunity to attend schools and universities, but in a manner aligned with Islamic principles, different from previous governments that gave precedence to Western norms and culture in educational institutions. The completion of this process is expected within the next six months, indicating the resumption of girls’ education”, he said.
GOVERNANCE, AND LAW AND ORDER
- INSIGHTS ON OPIUM CULTIVATION
The forum praised the IEA’s efforts to curb and eradicate 95% of opium cultivation. A participant noted that the transfer of drug addicts to rehabilitation centers across the country has been met with satisfaction, with 80 out of 100 people expressing contentment with the opium ban policy.
Mr. Looni remarked that the Pakistani government’s policies regarding opium cultivation and other narcotics are compromised, with bribery and corruption reaching alarming levels. Security is also compromised, and reports suggest the involvement of high officials in corrupt practices. He pointed out the helplessness of the anti-narcotics department in addressing these issues. Additionally, he pointed out that while opium is entirely banned in Afghanistan, there is evidence of opium cultivation in Pakistan, particularly in the Chaman area. This cultivation reportedly occurs upon the request of Afghan landowners who pay farmers on the Chaman side to grow opium on their lands. This arrangement is seen as a mutually beneficial but illicit business endeavor between the parties involved.
Mr. Habibullah emphasized the need for both governments to provide better agricultural opportunities to the people of Afghanistan and Pakistan. He highlighted the smuggling of various fertilizers from Pakistan into Afghanistan, impacting farmers significantly. “Both countries possess experienced farmers in agriculture who only require attention and support from the government.”, he said.
- JUSTICE SYSTEM
Mr. Looni stated, “The Taliban will definitely come back to power with a much stronger economic and political background because they have the most inexpensive and rapid justice system Sasta Insaf in the world, as an American general once remarked”. He further highlighted a contrast, saying, “Here in Pakistan, you can be convicted even in murder cases, but if you hire a superior lawyer, you will be out of jail in a matter of 10 days.” He expressed concern over the compromised justice system in Pakistan, citing hundreds and thousands of pending cases in courts for over 30 years.
Other participants seconded Looni stating that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) provides more timely justice compared to the delayed system in Pakistan.
Bacha Khan added, “The Taliban has very strict policies regarding justice; they don’t compromise, which is why justice is provided rapidly.” He noted that while justice prevails in democratic countries, it is not as quick as in the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan. In Pakistan, a small-level case may take two to three years to seek justice.
CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD
To sum up, the conference brought forth key insights into the multifaceted challenges faced by both nations. The imperative need for a regulated refugee policy, articulated by participants, underscores the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns and fostering dignified repatriation. The recommendations presented, spanning trade and economic collaboration, peace and security initiatives, educational reforms, and governance improvements, offer a comprehensive framework for fostering sustainable bilateral ties.
Moving forward, the policymakers should leverage these recommendations as a foundation for diplomatic initiatives. Emphasizing collaboration on economic opportunities, peace-building measures, and educational reforms could pave the way for enhanced regional stability. Additionally, sustained dialogue and inclusive governance practices, as highlighted in the conference, should be prioritized to transform the vulnerable socio-political landscape. Dialogue on the highest levels, combined with people-to-people interactions, are key to greater regional stability.