Turbulent Waters I Steering Pak-Afghan Water Diplomacy

PREAMBLE

Water is a critical and increasingly scarce resource in the South Asian region, and for Pakistan and Afghanistan, effective water management is not just a matter of economic survival but also a key to regional stability. Despite sharing several transboundary rivers, both countries have struggled to establish a comprehensive water-sharing agreement, leading to tensions that could escalate if left unaddressed. Given the growing pressures of climate change, population growth, and agricultural demands, there is an urgent need for proactive and strategic water diplomacy between Pakistan and Afghanistan. This report explores the potential pathways for collaboration and highlights the necessity of a robust water-sharing framework to secure the future of both nations.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ambreen Shabbir is a Research Associate at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics and an independent consultant in report writing and policy research. She has consulted for the Pakistan Alliance for Girls Education, coordinated research at the Akhter Hameed Khan Foundation, and worked as a freelance scriptwriter. Ambreen also brings editorial experience from Auraq, Sahil, and Pro-Pakistani, and has ghostwritten several reports for international clients. © Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) – 2024

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TESTIMONIALS

“For the past nine years, I have been living in Pakistan. Being part of different youth initiatives here has allowed me to witness the incredible warmth and hospitality of the Pakistani people, and how they empathize with young Afghans like me. The Pak-Afghan Youth Peace Initiative by CRSS has helped me realize my potential as a youth and refugee leader. I’m determined to spread the messages of peace and friendship that I am taking away from this fellowship.”

Zainab Saee

Afghan Refugee