Deportation of Afghan Refugees Sparks Concerns Over Stability and Dignity

Between February 21 and 28, approximately 613 Afghan migrant families were deported from Pakistan and Iran, with Iran expelling 501 families and Pakistan deporting 112. The UNHCR reported that over 2.1 million Afghan refugees have returned in 2024, urging a dignified and organized repatriation process to avoid chaos. Concerns over historical grievances between Afghanistan and its neighbors could deepen tensions if effective frameworks for return are not established.

Hundreds of Afghan refugees have been deported from Pakistan and Iran, with approximately 613 migrant families returning to Afghanistan between February 21 and 28, as reported by local media. Specifically, Iran expelled 501 families, while Pakistan deported 112 families, either through coercion or voluntary return.

Arafat Jamal, the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Afghanistan, noted that 2.1 million Afghan refugees have returned in 2024 alone. He underscored the need for collaboration among Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran to facilitate a systematic return of refugees, ensuring it contributes to stability and peace.

Jamal emphasized the importance of treating refugees with dignity and ensuring that those wishing to return do so voluntarily. He cautioned that if repatriation is unorganized and does not help stabilize the region, it could lead to chaos along the borders.

Zakiullah Muhammadi, a professor at an Afghan university, remarked that historical tensions could escalate into conflict without an appropriate framework for the dignified return of returning Afghans. Many Afghans have sought refuge in Pakistan and Iran for decades due to conflict in their homeland.

The return of these refugees coincides with an increasing food crisis and growing instability in Afghanistan, exacerbating their challenges. Reports indicate that deported refugees have faced severe abuse and harassment while in Pakistan, further complicating their situation.

The recent deportation of hundreds of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran highlights ongoing challenges faced by returning migrants. The UNHCR’s appeal for a systematic and dignified return process is critical in preventing further instability in the region. Without cooperative efforts among the involved countries, the potential for conflict and chaos remains high. The plight of Afghan returnees underscores the dire humanitarian situation within Afghanistan.

Original Source: pune.news