The Pashtunistan Conundrum: Historical Analysis of Territorial Claims and Global Interests

Abstract

The Pashtunistan issue had historical significance for Pakistan, particularly regarding its relations with Afghanistan and its internal dynamics, especially in the northwestern regions of Pakistan. The regional as well as, international forces made use of this controversy in the best possible manner for the promotion of their objectives. India, America and Soviet Union got involved in the issue to safeguard their stakes in the region. The traditional rivalry between India and Pakistan had its distinct worth and expression on the issue. Patronage and support of Pashtun Nationalist movements left the region unstable and volatile. For the US the prime importance was to keep Pakistan engaged in the Cold War from their side. To strengthen its ties with Pakistan it totally ignored the Pashtun argument. On the other hand the involvement of the  USSR on the issue of Pashtunistan was also based on Cold War. The unrest of Pashtuns was used by them for the promotion of their objectives. During this struggle for power, the Pashtun communities grapple with the tangible impacts of policies shaped by distant capitals, facing violence, uncertainty, and a quest for identity.  Just like geopolitics intersects with human lives, the Pashtunistan issue transcends borders, highlighting the complexities of power, identity, and the human cost of global politics.

Keywords: Pashtunistan, geopolitics, Pashtun identity, global powers, ordinary lives.