EVALUATING PAKISTAN’S BORDER MANAGEMENT: KEY CHALLENGES AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS

This study examines Pakistan’s border management along its borders with India, Afghanistan, and Iran, excluding its border with China, which is generally safe and free from contention. It is being influenced by a multitude of factors entailing not just geopolitical conflicts but also militants’ infiltration, smuggling, illegal trade, institutional deficiencies, and infrastructural challenges. It is hypothesised that to navigate these complexities, Pakistan needs a multi-prong approach entailing strategic diplomacy, technological modernisation, economic engagement and narrative transformation. Sustainable management necessitates inclusive policies that consider local circumstances, cross-border human connections, and cultural aspects. Drawing on qualitative data, including expert interviews and thematic analysis, this research identifies challenges that occur at borders due to gaps in policy, infrastructure, and coordination. Thereby, the paper proposes a comprehensive framework to address the challenges to ensure national security and regional stability by pursuing better diplomatic relations with adjacent states.