Securing Afghanistan’s Border

In “Securing Afghanistan’s Border”, Amin Saikal summarizes the troublesome history of Afghanistan’s border, particularly along the Durand Line – the section of the border that begins on the northeast and extends southwest across to where Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran intersect. The article assesses the political complexities of the border issue, as well as the impact different players, such as Pakistan, al-Qaeda, and the Taliban, have had on deteriorating border security in the country. Saikal suggests that border security can only be attained through robust and concerted political, economic and military strategies. This would include well-armed border guards, an increase in border posts, and the successful execution of ground and air surveillance campaigns. He also argues that Pakistan is in a better position than Afghanistan to improve border security; however, India-Pakistan disputes need to be resolved before Pakistan can shift its resources to the Durand Line and contribute to its security. Finally, Saikal argues that US involvement in Afghanistan, closely tied to the ‘war on terror’, has failed in securing, reconstructing and stabilizing the country. To improve prospects for success, the US must encourage cooperation between Kabul and Islamabad.