Opening Border Crossings Without Passports: A Threat To Pakistan’s Stability – OpEd
The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), formed in 2018, considers itself a representation of the rights and interests of the Pashtun people, particularly in the context of their grievances related to military operations and state policies in Pakistan’s border regions.
The movement gained significant attention following a grand jirga that convened on 13 October 2024, to address these issues, advocating for improved living conditions and accountability for alleged state abuses. Among some of the demands, PTM has proposed the opening of border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan without passports, framing it as a measure to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade. However, it is imperative to scrutinize the potential consequences of such a move for Pakistan’s security and economy. The stark realities of a porous border suggest that the risks far outweigh the benefits.
Primarily, an open border facilitates a myriad of illegal activities, including smuggling, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, all of which can profoundly harm the interests of ordinary citizens. Manzoor Pashteen, along with various mafias, appears to advocate for maintaining the status quo, wherein smuggling flourishes unchecked. This situation raises alarms, as the estimated cost of smuggling to Pakistan’s economy hovers around $1 billion annually, a figure that encapsulates lost revenue and rampant corruption. Such losses not only strain public finances but also undermine the legitimacy of the state.
Furthermore, the implications of human trafficking cannot be overstated. Each year, over 10,000 individuals are trafficked across the border, many of whom face exploitation, violence, and even death. The vulnerability of these individuals highlights the urgent need for stronger border controls rather than the loosening of regulations. Instead of promoting free movement, the government should prioritize safeguarding its citizens from these grave threats.
In addition to human suffering, legal businesses in Pakistan face crippling competition from smuggled goods, reporting losses that exceed $2 billion. This scenario not only affects the local economy but also diminishes taxpayer revenues, as legitimate businesses struggle to survive against unfair competition. The proliferation of smuggled goods thus poses a significant threat to the economic stability of the nation and raises critical questions about the priorities of those advocating for open borders.
Moreover, the illegal influx of firearms presents a dire threat to national security. It is estimated that over 50,000 illegal firearms enter Pakistan from Afghanistan annually, contributing to violence and instability. The porous nature of the border allows terrorist groups to operate with impunity, as evidenced by the fact that over 60% of attacks in Pakistan can be attributed to groups exploiting Afghan territory. This statistic should serve as a wake-up call, urging policymakers to reinforce border security rather than dismantling it.
Indeed, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan have already witnessed a concerning 30% rise in terror-related incidents in 2024, resulting in significant casualties among security forces. The collaboration between mafias and terror networks creates a vicious cycle of violence, wherein local populations bear the brunt of the deteriorating security landscape. It is crucial to recognize that calls for open borders not only ignore the existing challenges but also risk exacerbating them.
In terms of narcotics, the stakes are alarmingly high. Between September 2023 and June 2024, authorities seized 1,041 metric tons of narcotics, with daily seizures averaging 2-3 tons. The staggering worth of these drugs has inevitably attracted the attention of criminal mafias that benefit from the ongoing trade. Allowing an open border would only empower these networks, undermining law enforcement efforts and perpetuating a cycle of addiction and violence.
The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has also ramped up its activities, with an estimated 1,500 to 3,000 fighters operating in the border regions, further complicating the security landscape. The rise of such extremist groups has been accompanied by a notable 30% increase in violence in 2024, with over 200 reported incidents attributed to these factions in KP and Balochistan. This troubling trend underscores the need for a robust security framework rather than a relaxed border policy.
In conclusion, the call to open border crossings without passports raises critical concerns about the safety and well-being of Pakistan’s citizens. While advocates may tout the benefits of enhanced connectivity, the reality is that such a move would likely facilitate illegal activities that undermine the nation’s security and economy. It is essential for policymakers to prioritize the protection of their citizens and the integrity of the state by reinforcing border controls, thus preventing the further erosion of law and order. The situation demands a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of smuggling and trafficking while safeguarding Pakistan’s future. Only through a concerted effort can the state reclaim control over its borders and ensure a more secure environment for its people.