Recent reports indicate that around 613 Afghan families returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran in late February 2024. While the majority were expelled from Iran, some were deported from Pakistan. UN officials emphasize the need for organized and dignified repatriation to avoid instability. Experts caution that without a proper framework for return, historical tensions could worsen, potentially leading to conflict.
Between February 21 and 28, approximately 613 Afghan families returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran, according to reports from local media in Kabul. Of these, Iran expelled 501 families, while Pakistan deported 112, either voluntarily or forcibly. This wave of returns highlights ongoing issues regarding the treatment of Afghan refugees in both neighboring countries.
Arafat Jamal, a representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Afghanistan, reported that over 2.1 million Afghan refugees have returned to their homeland in 2024. He emphasized the need for a coordinated effort between the countries involved to ensure that repatriation occurs in a systematic way that fosters stability, economic growth, and peace within Afghanistan.
Jamal further stressed the importance of treating returning individuals with dignity and ensuring that their repatriation is voluntary. He warned that disorganized and chaotic returns could lead to instability on both sides of the border, exacerbating an already challenging situation.
Professor Zakiullah Muhammadi from an Afghan university expressed concern that the ongoing deportations could intensify historical grievances between Afghanistan and its neighboring countries. He cautioned that without a proper framework for the dignified return of refugees, the potential for conflict could increase.
Afghan migrants have sought refuge in Pakistan and Iran for decades, fleeing conflict and instability in their homeland. The return of these refugees amid the rise of food insecurity and instability within Afghanistan only complicates their dire situation. Many of those who are expelled or forcibly deported have experienced abuse and harassment during their stay in Pakistan.
The recent deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran has raised significant concerns regarding their treatment and the implications for stability in Afghanistan. With over 2 million refugees returning in 2024, it is crucial for all parties to collaborate on a structured repatriation process that prioritizes human dignity. Failure to address these issues may lead to escalating tensions between Afghanistan and its neighbors, amidst an already precarious economic climate.
Original Source: pune.news
