HE border town of Chaman has been protesting for nearly five months now against

the government's 6 imposition of a passport and visa mandate for movement between
Pakistan and Afghanistan. Deep-seated discontent prevails in the local populace
traders, political parties, and civil society members casting a spotlight on not
just this issue but also the region's overall economic hardships. The transition
from a relatively open to a regulated crossing with stringent document
requirements, understandably aimed at enhancing security in an area notorious for
smuggling, has inadvertently impacted the community's way of life. The local
economy, which relies heavily on small-scale trade, has been hit particularly hard.
While trucks have recently been allowed through, thousands of daily wage workers,
who walk across, have been marginalised. A recent report by the HRCP highlights not
just the immediate economic repercussions but also the long-term social and
humanitarian implications of the border restrictions. It rightly calls for a
nuanced approach, suggesting engagement with all stakeholders, including Afghan
representatives, to find a balanced resolution that considers both security needs
and the local populace`s welfare.

The protesters' demands, ranging from the abolition of the visa policy to the
restoration of small traders' welfare packages, represent a broader plea for
recognition, respect, and understanding. The proposal to facilitate visas on
arrival and establish border markets is a constructive step towards mitigating the
economic impact of the new regulations. These measures, coupled with investments in
local industries and jobcreation initiatives as suggested by the HRCP, could serve
as a foundation for sustainable development in Chaman, and the wider Balochistan.
The new government must balance the imperative of national security with the
legitimate needs and rights of its border communities. It must engage with the
protesters, understand their grievances, and explore interim solutions while
working towards long-term development goals. Dialogue and diplomacy with the
protesters, alongside working with a recalcitrant Kabul, are key to navigating this
complex issue. As mentioned previously in these pages, ensuring that the security
measures are not perceived as punitive, but as part of a broader strategy to
enhance the wellbeing of all Pakistanis, including those in Chaman, is essential.

The path forward should be marked by empathy, engagement, and concerted efforts
towards economic empowerment, laying the groundwork for peace and prosperity in the
region.