For decades Afghans have sought refuge in Pakistan and Pakistan as a neighbouring country has served as a safe haven for millions of Afghan refugees under the shadow of a war-torn Afghanistan. Afghans fleeing the violence and instability in Afghanistan have put the Afghan refugees in a perilous situation and are looking for protection and consolation over the border. Moreover, the predicament faced by refugees residing in Pakistan involves aspects, including their legal status, limited economic prospects, and difficulties in accessing education and healthcare as well, as the scarcity of adequate housing and living conditions serve as a sharp reminder of the urgent need for international assistance and well-coordinated efforts to solve this growing humanitarian crisis.
Pakistan has taken up a substantial amount of the responsibility of housing Afghan refugees, providing a lifeline to people frantically seeking solace from the horrors of war. A significant portion of the world’s displaced people (from Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, and Iran) have sought sanctuary in the country over the years. But there have been difficulties along with this generosity. Overcrowded refugee camps and settlements bear witness to the immense strain on resources and infrastructure. Basic necessities such as shelter, clean water, and healthcare are often in short supply. Families, many of whom have endured unimaginable hardships, now face the harsh reality of limited access to education and economic opportunities.
The fall of Kabul increased the number of Afghan refugees in Pakistan whereas the total number of Afghan refugees in Pakistan is said to be 4.4 million which includes 1.7 million illegal migrants. Pakistan as a neighbouring state provided refuge to the Afghans, especially in these two years after the Taliban takeover, but unfortunately, the recent announcement made by the Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfaraz Bugti to send back the Afghan refugees to their own country has created chaos among the Afghans because a country under the leadership of Taliban had made them take refuge in Pakistan or other neighbouring countries. Most importantly, there are Afghans in Pakistan who have bought their own properties and developed a source of income over the years, Lleaving behind all their properties and returning to Afghanistan would significantly amplify their challenges and anxieties. Notably, the current earthquake in Herat has made the situation in Afghanistan even worse. People have lost their loved ones and are shelterless now. Given the circumstances, Pakistan announcing a crackdown on Afghans specifically, is inhumane and on top of that in such a short time period.
Thus, this is high time for Pakistan to reconsider its decision and find a doable solution such as, proper documentation and registration of the illegal migrants which will help in determining the status and the backgrounds of the migrants as asylum seekers, refugees, or economic migrants. Rather than repatriating them back to Afghanistan because there are also Afghan refugees who have been residing here for decades with proper identification (PoR card). Still, they cannot buy properties, SIM cards or get their children enrolled in schools, colleges, or universities. Whereas they are a good source for Pakistan’s economy. In such a case, Pakistan may consider all Afghans living here for decades and at least provide them with some valid identification.
In the meantime, the government of Pakistan needs to show flexibility and adaptability to the Afghan refugees because Afghanistan’s condition is unstable and vulnerable to change. The deportation strategy should be made adaptive to changing conditions and flexible, with systems in place to handle any obstacles or opportunities that may arise. The safety, security, and well-being of Afghan refugees can be carefully considered before the decision to deport them is carried out. It needs to be carried out in accordance with international legal and humanitarian standards. In the end, every decision-making procedure should put the welfare and support of the migrants themselves first
Moreover, the vulnerability of women and children in this situation may be the most heartbreaking element of it. They are the most vulnerable because they face increased dangers of exploitation, trafficking, and violence. The dire need for focused support and safety measures are required in this situation.
Although Pakistan’s hospitality is commendable, it is crucial that the outside world recognizes and confronts the challenges the nation faces. A sustained solution must include elements like financial assistance, shared accountability, and international collaboration. Eventually, the situation of Afghan refugees in Pakistan is a global issue that needs a coordinated response. It serves as a call to action and a reminder that our shared humanity transcends national boundaries. Let’s keep in mind that millions of lives and futures are on the line as we manage this difficult humanitarian situation. Together, we can pave the way for Afghan refugees in Pakistan to live with respect and hope for a better future.
In the meantime, the government of Pakistan needs to show flexibility and adaptability to the Afghan refugees because Afghanistan’s condition is unstable and vulnerable to change. The deportation strategy should be made adaptive to changing conditions and flexible, with systems in place to handle any obstacles or opportunities that may arise. The safety, security, and well-being of Afghan refugees can be carefully considered before the decision to deport them is carried out. It needs to be carried out in accordance with international legal and humanitarian standards. In the end, every decision-making procedure should put the welfare and support of the migrants themselves first.
