Significant Deportation of Afghan Refugees from Pakistan and Iran

Recently, 613 Afghan families returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran, with notable deportations occurring in the past week. UNHCR officials stress the need for organized repatriations to ensure stability. Lack of proper frameworks risks deepening historical tensions and increasing challenges for returning refugees amid Afghanistan’s ongoing crises.

Kabul witnessed the recent return of approximately 613 Afghan migrant families from Pakistan and Iran, as reported by local media. This data, provided by Afghanistan’s Amu TV, indicates that 501 families were expelled from Iran and 112 from Pakistan, either forcibly or voluntarily, between February 21 and February 28, 2024.

Arafat Jamal, the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Afghanistan, noted that over 2.1 million Afghan refugees have returned to their homeland in 2024. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts with the involved countries to ensure that these returns are conducted systematically, promoting stability and economic growth within Afghanistan.

Mr. Jamal further urged that refugees be treated with dignity and that their returns be voluntary. He warned that if the repatriation process lacks organization, it may lead to instability and chaos for both Afghanistan and its neighboring countries.

Zakiullah Muhammadi, an Afghan university professor, cautioned that unresolved historical grievances between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran may escalate and potentially lead to conflict if proper procedures are not established for the dignified return of deported Afghans.

For decades, many Afghans fleeing conflict and war have sought refuge in Pakistan and Iran. The current situation, highlighted by food insecurity and instability in Afghanistan, could exacerbate the challenges faced by returning refugees, who have reportedly encountered significant abuse and harassment during their time in Pakistan.

The deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran raises critical humanitarian concerns. Calls for dignified and voluntary repatriation underscore the need for an organized process. If not addressed adequately, this situation could disrupt regional stability and exacerbate grievances between Afghanistan and its neighboring countries. Authorities must prioritize humane treatment to prevent further crises.

Original Source: pune.news