Publication

This paper argues that the Durand Line should constitute the legal border between Afghanistan and Pakistan and as such be recognized by both countries. While Pakistan recognizes the Durand Line as its official border with Afghanistan, consecutive Afghan governments so far have refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as Afghanistan’s border with Pakistan. While the recognition issue continues to constitute a highly sensitive topic, the paper outlines that the Durand Line can already be considered a border under international law, which amounts to de facto recognition.