Sociopolitical Challenges of Afghan Society: Post 9/11 Scenario

The article examines various issues in Afghanistan in the context that emerged after 9/11. It focuses on security, maintenance as well as various development pursuits encompassing the political and economic dimensions of Afghanistan. Being a neighbor of Pakistan, Afghanistan faced a number of challenges, as both countries rely upon a cordial and mutually cooperative relation. However, there exists a trust deficit and the war against terrorism has itself become an issue of major concern between the respective countries. Afghanistan urges Pakistan to do more to stop the alleged extremist infiltrations into Afghan territory. While, Pakistan repeatedly denies such charges and holds Afghan government itself responsible for its failure to check cross border incursions. Foreign powers, especially the Indian involvement in Afghan internal affairs has affected its relations with Pakistan. According to some analysts, the situation has worsened to such an extent that its long term national interests have been adversely affected, especially in the post 9/11 scenario. Pakistan and Afghanistan inherit a great significance for each other. Geo-strategic, socio-political, economic, and other reasons make it a compulsion for both countries to have a cordial relation in their respective vested interests and in the larger interests of peace in the regional as well as international context. After the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistan hosted a million refugees. Since then it’s a burden on the economy of Pakistan. But, Pakistan never complained to Afghanistan and the international community. These two potential nations of South Asia can defeat and remove many ills faced because of some misunderstandings and ineffective foreign policy. But, such a prospect is only possible if the leadership of both countries successfully tackles all outstanding issues in their bilateralrelationship.