Afghanistan Water Resources: A Catalyst for Regional Stability

Water resources in Afghanistan have become an increasingly important factor in regional livelihoods and relations among neighbouring countries. As an upstream riparian country, Afghanistan holds a strategic position with important implications for both regional tensions and opportunities for cooperation. This analysis argues that constructive water governance, supported by improved knowledge management, technical engagement regional dialogue, and international legal principles, can contribute to greater stability. 

At the same time, the case for cooperation must confront a central tension: major water infrastructure is being developed largely without regional coordination, while Afghanistan’s limited participation in regional institutions restricts opportunities for cooperation. Water can become a platform for stability only if these challenges are addressed. This Alumni Note outlines both opportunities and challenges, emphasising the need to move from general calls for cooperation towards practical mechanisms for information sharing, joint monitoring, confidence-building and broader regional engagement.

The full article is available to our Alumni & Security Policy Community in our exclusive library.