Pakistan-Afghanistan Border Dynamics and Its Impact on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Security in the post US withdrawal scenario

Abstract

This study analyzes the effects of events at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), an area badly damaged by instability from the border. Violence, illegal immigration and organized crime have arisen in the region ever since the Taliban came into power in Afghanistan in 2021. In addition, these issues are made more challenging by old grudges, undefined borders and drifting international standards. Using various sources and data from the field, this paper examines the background of this border situation. The study concludes that the problems caused by border militancy, refugees, and weak government have greatly increased instability in KP. Because the Durand Line is disputed, the TTP carries out attacks, and there are weaknesses in the region’s border infrastructure, insecurity is still high. The research points out that answers should involve improving borders, regional alliances, support for growth programs and stronger civil society engagement. The results provide useful information for both policymakers and leading analysts working on South Asian security and peacebuilding.