The Role of Afghanistan's Foreign Policy and Diplomatic Apparatus in Combating Narcotics

Abstract

Combating narcotics is one of Afghanistan’s most pressing challenges, as the country, due to its geographical location and socio-economic conditions, has become one of the world’s largest producers of illicit drugs. This research examines the role of Afghanistan’s foreign policy and diplomatic apparatus in managing this crisis through strengthening regional and international cooperation. The significance of this study lies in its exploration of collaborative opportunities with other countries and international organizations to counter the production, trafficking, and consumption of narcotics. The central research question is: How can Afghanistan’s foreign policy and diplomatic apparatus play an effective role in reducing the narcotics crisis through the enhancement of international and regional cooperation? This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, employing both analytical and descriptive methods, with data collected and analyzed from library sources. The findings indicate that Afghanistan’s foreign policy and diplomacy can positively contribute to reducing narcotics production and trafficking by leveraging regional cooperation, utilizing international treaties, and attracting technical and financial assistance. Additionally, enhancing the capacity of the diplomatic apparatus, expanding relations with transit-route countries, and implementing joint anti-narcotics programs are of critical importance. These measures can help mitigate the security, economic, and social issues associated with narcotics while reinforcing Afghanistan’s image as an active partner in the global fight against drugs. The study’s results can assist policymakers and researchers in developing more effective strategies to address this crisis.