Can Tribal Elders Act as a Bridge in Improving Pak-Afghan Relations?

Pak-Afghan relations have always been complex, delicate, and sensitive. The Pashtun tribes living on both sides of the border share a common cultural, linguistic, and civilizational heritage, yet state policies, mutual distrust, and political conditions have continuously damaged this relationship. The question is: can there be a local, practical, and sustainable solution to these longstanding issues? Can tribal elders or regional chieftains play a role in improving Pak-Afghan relations? And could reducing or withdrawing military presence from the border areas help improve the situation?
Historically, tribal elders and regional chieftains have not only commanded respect at the local level but have also played a crucial role in decision-making. When the British Empire needed to ensure the safe passage of trade caravans through these tribal areas, they avoided direct military involvement and instead relied on local elders to provide security. There were reasons for this approach:
Firstly, the decisions of the elders were considered binding upon the local tribes, so gaining their cooperation was a guarantee of peace. Secondly, the British understood that a sustainable system could not be established without the confidence and involvement of local leaders.
This tradition is still alive today, but unfortunately, the modern state system has largely sidelined these elders. As a result, the vacuum has often been filled by extremist elements and non-state actors.Even today, if misunderstandings, distrust, and border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan are to be reduced, it is imperative to engage local elders and tribal leadership.
These are the people who: Can mediate between tribes on both sides of the border. Can discourage extremism and guide the youth. Can promote cultural and trade relations
Both the governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan should maintain consistent engagement with local elders, revitalize the traditional ‘jirga’ system, and seek resolutions to mutual issues in light of local customs and traditions.
Military presence in border areas might be a short-term necessity from a security standpoint, but long-term peace cannot be achieved through military force alone. Sometimes, the presence of the army creates feelings of deprivation and mistrust among the local population.
If: Security responsibilities are entrusted to local people, Economic development opportunities are provided in border regions, and Investment is made in education and healthcare sectors.
Then certainly, the situation can improve, and the need for military presence will naturally diminish. However, any decision regarding complete military withdrawal should be made in line with ground realities, security challenges, and the local context.
Today, when Pakistan and Afghanistan are caught in a web of mutual tensions, distrust, and political rhetoric, the need for a peaceful, trust-based, and local solution is greater than ever before. If tribal elders, chieftains, and community leaders play an active and coordinated role, a climate of peace, development, and mutual respect can be established on both sides of the border—especially because Pashtuns live on both sides and hold great respect for their traditions and the jirga system.
Therefore, both governments must listen to these elders, trust them, and recognize them as partners in national security and regional stability.