Despite its claims to support Pashtun rights, the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) raises doubts about its true goals and objectives based on its rhetoric and behavior. The most notable of these is the way it consistently promotes the phrase “Lar o Bar Yaw Afghan.” This slogan subverts Pashtun identity, ignores historical and geographical facts, and promotes an agenda that is neither realistic nor advantageous to the Pashtun people, despite appearing to be a cry for togetherness.
The history of the Pashtuns predates the current state of Afghanistan, making them a proud and ancient nation. From the time of Ahmad Shah Abdali until the present, they have preserved their unique cultural identity for a long time and have been instrumental in forming the history of the area. However, it is not only historically incorrect but also undervalues the enormous contributions made by Pashtuns to the larger region to reduce their identity to that of a subset of Afghan nationalism.
The current Afghan state, marred by decades of war and instability, is ill-equipped to embrace more responsibilities, let alone integrate the Pashtun-majority areas of Pakistan. Afghanistan has been plagued by poverty, weak governance, and the absence of basic services for its citizens. By contrast, Pashtuns in Pakistan have benefitted from their inclusion in a stable state, where they actively participate in politics, economy, and society. Pakistan has invested heavily in the development of its Pashtun regions, with substantial improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare over the years.
Afghanistan’s struggles are no secret. According to recent reports, over 28 million people—more than two-thirds of its population—require humanitarian assistance. With poverty rates exceeding 90% and a literacy rate of merely 37%, Afghanistan remains a state grappling with basic survival rather than progress. Furthermore, the Taliban’s regressive policies have deprived women of fundamental rights, including education and employment, reducing their role in society to near invisibility.
In stark contrast, Pashtuns in Pakistan enjoy far greater opportunities for advancement. Literacy rates in Pashtun-majority regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have risen significantly, and the region has seen vast improvements in infrastructure, employment, and quality of life. Pakistan’s commitment to integrating tribal areas into the national framework has further opened avenues for development, leaving little doubt as to which system better serves the Pashtun people.
Despite its claims of being a voice for Pashtun rights, PTM’s actions often appear misaligned with its stated goals. Instead of focusing on real issues such as education, health, and employment, PTM’s rhetoric frequently veers into anti-state propaganda, accusing Pakistan’s institutions without substantial evidence. For instance, their promotion of “Lar o Bar Yaw Afghan” is not just an emotional plea for unity but also a veiled attempt to destabilize Pakistan’s Pashtun-majority regions by linking them to a failing Afghan state.
Moreover, PTM’s alignment with anti-Pakistan narratives raises questions about external influences and funding. Historical events, such as Afghanistan’s unprovoked aggression against Pakistan in the 20th century, illustrate Kabul’s long-standing hostility. By adopting a narrative that aligns with Afghan interests rather than those of the Pashtun people in Pakistan, PTM risks alienating its base and losing credibility as a genuine advocate for Pashtun welfare.
The call for uniting Pashtuns under Afghan nationalism ignores the harsh realities faced by Afghanistan’s own Pashtun population. They suffer immensely from poverty, displacement, and violence. It is not uncommon for Afghan Pashtuns to seek refuge in Pakistan, where they find greater opportunities and safety. The notion of merging Pakistan’s Pashtun regions with Afghanistan is both impractical and detrimental, as it would subject the people to the same instability and suffering that has plagued Afghanistan for decades.
On the other hand, the idea of Afghan Pashtuns merging with Pakistan presents a more practical and beneficial alternative. Pakistan’s stable institutions, growing economy, and established social framework can provide Afghan Pashtuns with the opportunities they desperately need. In this context, the slogan “Lar o Bar Yaw Pakistan” emerges as a more viable and constructive vision for the region’s future.
Pakistan’s efforts in Pashtun-majority regions stand as a testament to its commitment to uplift the community. From the construction of over 200 schools in tribal areas to health centers serving thousands of families, the state has consistently prioritized development. Literacy rates in KP have improved, roads and highways have connected remote areas to urban centers, and youth training programs have provided employment to thousands.
Operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad have significantly reduced terrorism, creating a safer environment for development. The integration of erstwhile tribal areas into KP and subsequent legislative reforms have empowered Pashtuns to have a stronger voice in national affairs. These advancements demonstrate that Pakistan’s approach to Pashtun welfare is rooted in tangible progress, not hollow slogans.
The PTM’s insistence on promoting “Lar o Bar Yaw Afghan” is a misguided and counterproductive agenda that fails to address the real needs of Pashtuns. Afghanistan’s dire situation offers no promise of stability or progress, making the notion of unification unrealistic. Instead, Pashtuns’ future lies in strengthening their role within a stable and prospering Pakistan.
It is time for Pashtuns to reject emotional but impractical narratives and focus on building a brighter future within the framework of Pakistan. The unity, progress, and opportunities provided by Pakistan far outweigh the uncertain promises of an unstable Afghan state. By embracing “Lar o Bar Yaw Pakistan,” Pashtuns can honor their rich history while securing a prosperous future for generations to come.
