In a recent development highlighting the challenges faced by Afghan refugees, journalist Kobra Husayni has been sentenced to two years in prison by the St. Petersburg city court in Russia, BBC reported. The court found him guilty of illegally crossing the Russian border with Europe.
Husayni, who relocated to Russia following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, had hoped to seek asylum in Europe. However, her plans were thwarted, leading to her imprisonment in Russia. Despite serving her sentence alongside a colleague, the prospect of deportation to Afghanistan now looms over him.
Throughout the trial, the Russian government declined to grant temporary asylum to Husayni, citing insufficient grounds. This decision raises concerns about the fate of Afghan refugees seeking safety in various countries amid escalating turmoil in their homeland.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has been urging nations worldwide to extend asylum to Afghan nationals facing threats, including journalists, former embassy staff, and women. The refugee crisis stemming from Afghanistan's prolonged conflict has left millions displaced, both internally and externally.
With over 2.6 mn registered Afghan refugees globally, the majority residing in Iran and Pakistan, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The UNHCR continues its efforts to provide essential aid and protection to displaced Afghans, both within Afghanistan and in neighboring countries.
However, the organization faces challenges in securing adequate support amidst declining financial assistance. As the Afghan crisis enters its fifth decade, sustaining humanitarian efforts and fostering regional stability becomes increasingly crucial.
Despite some refugees returning to Afghanistan due to economic factors and improved security, the overall situation remains precarious. UNHCR anticipates the return of thousands more in 2024, necessitating robust assistance and investment in areas of displacement and reintegration.
Moreover, the organization aims to facilitate resettlement opportunities for Afghan refugees, recognizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing the refugee crisis.
Uzbekistan is home to more than 38,000 identified stateless individuals, marking the highest figure in the sub-region. Primarily consisting of former citizens of the Soviet Union who have yet to obtain or verify citizenship in successor states, this population represents a significant challenge. In 2021, Uzbekistan successfully addressed 33,000 cases of statelessness.
At the end of 2021, Uzbekistan provided refuge to 12 individuals officially recognized by UNHCR under its mandate, all originating from Afghanistan. Additionally, in November 2021, the Uzbekistani government disclosed that 13,020 Afghan nationals had entered the country on temporary visas throughout the year.
Uzbekistan appears to have embraced European Union assistance initiatives for Afghan refugees, as reports indicated EU and UNICEF allocation of €1.6mn to the Surkhandarya region. This funding aimed to bolster education, social services, and legal aid for the local community, inclusive of Afghan individuals.
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