Introduction
The United Nations refugee and migration agencies have expressed serious concerns regarding Pakistan's recent decision to deport thousands of Afghan refugees who are awaiting relocation to the United States and other countries. This situation has emerged as Pakistan prepares to evict undocumented Afghans from major cities, raising alarm among international organizations about the potential risks faced by these individuals if returned to Afghanistan.
Background on Afghan Refugees in Pakistan
Following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, many Afghans fled to neighboring Pakistan, seeking safety and stability. Among them, approximately 20,000 individuals were approved for resettlement in the U.S. under a program designed to assist those at risk due to their affiliations with the American government, media, and various aid organizations. However, the situation has become precarious for these refugees, particularly after the U.S. refugee programs were paused under the Trump administration, leaving many in a state of uncertainty.
Pakistan's Deportation Plans
Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, recently announced a plan to deport Afghan nationals without proper documentation from Islamabad and Rawalpindi by March 31, unless their resettlement cases are processed swiftly by host countries. This announcement has prompted the UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to seek clarification from the Pakistani government on the treatment of these vulnerable individuals.
UN Agencies' Concerns
The UNHCR and IOM have highlighted the dangers faced by Afghan nationals if returned to Afghanistan, particularly for ethnic and religious minorities, women, girls, journalists, human rights activists, and those in artistic professions. They noted an increase in arrests of Afghan nationals in major cities since early 2025, which has led to heightened anxiety among the Afghan community in Pakistan. The UN agencies reiterated that a non-return advisory has been in place since 2021, advocating against forced returns of Afghan nationals regardless of their documentation status.
Current Situation of Afghan Refugees
Despite the ongoing challenges, there are approximately 1.45 million Afghan refugees registered with the UNHCR in Pakistan, whose stay has been extended until June. However, many Afghans have been living in fear and hiding due to a crackdown on undocumented foreigners that began in 2023, resulting in around 800,000 Afghans either returning voluntarily or facing deportation, despite opposition from human rights groups and the Taliban.
Call for Human Rights Considerations
The UNHCR and IOM have urged Pakistan to ensure that any relocation measures respect human rights standards and due process, especially for those holding Proof of Registration (POR) and Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC). The agencies have acknowledged Pakistan's historical role in hosting refugees and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to manage the situation effectively.
Conclusion
The situation of Afghan refugees in Pakistan is a complex humanitarian issue that highlights the broader challenges faced by displaced individuals globally. The concerns raised by UN agencies underscore the need for careful consideration of human rights and the legal status of refugees during deportation processes. As Pakistan navigates this sensitive issue, the international community's response and support will be crucial in ensuring the safety and dignity of those affected.