Afghan Neutrality: Principles Breached and Costs Incurred

The neutrality of Afghanistan has been historically maintained not only by the state but also by the major powers. This ensured that, given its geopolitical importance, Afghanistan did not fall under any single country's influence thereby remaining independent. This paper discusses strategies adopted by various Afghan rulers and the policies of rival imperial hegemons in the course of the last two centuries. It shows that when the country's neutrality has been breached, heavy costs have been incurred by Afghanistan and all parties involved.