Several Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan are calling for discussions between the Pakistani government and Afghan authorities to address ongoing issues and allow them a dignified, gradual return to Afghanistan. The refugees express concerns over swift deportations and mounting pressures, leading to significant hardships for Afghan residents. Haji Nazar, a refugee, appeals for a three-month period from the Pakistani government to facilitate a structured repatriation process, as reported by Afghanistan-based Tolo News.
Refugee rights activist Allah Mir Miakhail highlights that security forces are detaining and expelling Afghan refugees across various locations. Many refugees require time to conclude their businesses and affairs, with numerous families holding invalidated Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. The activists stress the importance of a voluntary and phased return, supported by international organizations, to prevent a potential humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Advocates for refugee rights underscore the necessity for a voluntary and gradual repatriation process, with the backing of international bodies, to avert a new humanitarian emergency in Afghanistan. Ali Reza Karimi, another activist, notes that numerous Afghan refugees lack essential rights and live in uncertainty due to the absence of valid identity documents. Taliban recently expressed concerns over the escalating challenges faced by Afghan refugees in Pakistan, urging the Pakistani government to respect refugee rights and cease the detention and mistreatment of Afghan migrants.
Taliban’s deputy spokesperson, Hamdullah Fitrat, highlighted the increasing difficulties encountered by Afghan refugees in Pakistan, including arrests, harassment, and mistreatment by Pakistani authorities. Fitrat called upon the United Nations and other relevant entities to uphold refugee protection standards and intervene in countries where refugee rights are violated. He emphasized the need for economic cooperation and assistance for Afghan refugees returning to Afghanistan, urging the Pakistani government to adhere to international refugee norms and halt the arrest and harassment of Afghan refugees.
