A large-scale voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan is currently underway, primarily through the Torkham border crossing in the Khyber district. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has confirmed the ongoing movement of Afghan nationals back to their homeland.
Significant Numbers
On Thursday alone, 3,307 Afghan citizens returned to Afghanistan via the Torkham crossing. UNHCR Pakistan spokesperson, Qaisar Khan Afridi, reported that approximately 1.4 million undocumented Afghans and other displaced persons are currently in Pakistan, with the overwhelming majority originating from Afghanistan.
So far this year, 175,000 Afghan nationals have returned. This follows a larger trend of repatriation that began late last year.
Calls for Consideration
Qaisar Khan Afridi has appealed for exemptions to be considered for specific vulnerable groups. These include individuals with medical issues, students, and those in mixed marriages. He urged authorities to take these special circumstances into account during the repatriation process.
Afridi emphasized the importance of ensuring the return process is voluntary, safe, and dignified. He also called on both Pakistan and Afghanistan to protect the basic human rights of all individuals involved.
What Could Happen Next
The repatriation process is likely to continue as Pakistan manages undocumented migration. UNHCR will likely maintain its monitoring role and continue advocating for humane treatment of returnees. A possible next step could involve increased international aid to support both the returning refugees and the communities receiving them in Afghanistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the repatriation?
The voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan via the Torkham border is currently underway on a large scale, according to the UNHCR.
How many Afghan nationals are currently in Pakistan?
Approximately 1.4 million undocumented Afghans and other displaced persons are currently in Pakistan, with the vast majority originating from Afghanistan.
What specific concerns has the UNHCR raised?
The UNHCR has appealed for exemptions to be granted to individuals facing medical issues, students, and those in mixed marriages, and emphasized the need for a voluntary, safe, and dignified return process.
As this large-scale movement continues, what role do you believe international organizations should play in supporting both the returning refugees and the communities in Afghanistan?
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