The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) has called on Pakistan to stop the forced return of Afghan refugees, particularly those holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, amid growing concerns over human rights violations and regional instability.
Speaking in Geneva on August 5, UNHCR Spokesperson Babar Baloch expressed alarm over the recent wave of arrests, detentions, and deportations under Pakistan’s ongoing ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’.
“We acknowledge and appreciate Pakistan’s generosity in hosting Afghan refugees for over 40 years,” said Baloch. “However, the forced return of registered refugees contradicts Pakistan’s longstanding humanitarian tradition and violates the principle of non-refoulement.”
The UN agency voiced particular concern for Afghan women and girls, many of whom face severe restrictions and threats under the Taliban regime that regained control of Afghanistan in 2021.
“UNHCR remains particularly concerned about women and girls forced to return to a country where their human rights are at risk, as well as other groups who might be endangered,” Baloch noted, calling on authorities to ensure that any returns are voluntary, safe, and dignified.
The appeal comes as PoR cards, which officially recognize refugee status for many Afghans in Pakistan, expired at the end of June. Pakistan granted a one-month grace period, but UNHCR continues to push for further extensions and exemptions for those still in need of international protection.
As of July 31, over 352,000 Afghans have been returned from Pakistan this year, contributing to a total of more than 2.1mn Afghans returning or being forcibly returned from neighboring countries, including Iran.
The UN has warned that the mass return of refugees is straining Afghanistan’s already fragile infrastructure. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), nearly 23mn people—almost half of the Afghan population—will need humanitarian assistance in 2025.
“Mass and hasty returns significantly heighten protection needs, and risk instability in Afghanistan and the wider region,” said Baloch.
UNHCR is urging Pakistan to allow legal stay for Afghans with ongoing medical treatments, students enrolled in higher education, and those in mixed marriages. The agency appealed to Pakistan to uphold its tradition of compassion and respect for international protection standards.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)