Afghan nationalism, or pan-Afghanism, is an ideology asserting that the Afghan people constitute a unified nation, promoting the cultural integration of all individuals residing in Afghanistan. This concept frequently intertwines with Pashtun irredentism, and occasionally with Baloch irredentism, advocating for a "Greater Afghanistan" that would incorporate Pashtun-speaking territories of Pakistan. However, not all Afghan nationalists pursue such territorial expansion, sometimes preferring the current state of affairs or fearing the burden of a larger population. Historically, the roots of Afghan nationalism are traced to the early 20th century (1901-1929), solidifying after the Emirate of Afghanistan's victory against the British Empire in the Third Anglo-Afghan War of 1919. It also played a role in the Soviet-Afghan War, where Mujahideen fought against perceived 'Soviet neocolonialism,' and has been associated with the Taliban. Despite periods of weakness during civil wars and efforts by Pakistan to suppress "Greater Afghanistan" aspirations, the ideology saw a resurgence under Mohammed Najibullah in the late 1980s, fostering pan-Afghan unity against perceived threats from Pakistan.
Following the Taliban's takeover in 2021, Afghan nationalism has faced significant re-evaluation, particularly among the non-Pashtun Afghan diaspora. Many have begun to reject the Afghan national identity due to its historical and current overlaps with Pashtun nationalism, citing documented persecution of Hazaras by Pashtun-led governments and the Taliban, as well as controversies like the e-Tazkira ID card debate. The Taliban regime's actions, such as the unlawful detainment and torture of civilians in Panjshir Province during crackdowns on the National Resistance Front, have further intensified ethnic tensions and fueled debates within the diaspora. This has led to the re-emergence of other nationalistic sentiments, such as Hazara nationalism, much to the displeasure of Pashtun and Afghan nationalists. Ideologically, Afghan nationalism has spanned a broad spectrum, encompassing right-wing conservative positions, exemplified by the Islamic Movement of Taliban, as well as left-wing Marxist/Socialist stances, characteristic of groups like the Khalqists and supporters of former President Najibullah.