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UN Warns Pakistan’s Refugee Village Closures Could Trigger Forced Returns to Afghanistan
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Pakistan’s decision to close 16 Afghan refugee villages has sparked alarm from the united Nations, which fears the move will lead to the involuntary repatriation of thousands of Afghans, including those with official refugee status. The closures, impacting communities across Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab, are part of Islamabad’s broader “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan” (IFRP) and have ignited international concern over the potential humanitarian consequences.
Decades of Displacement at Risk
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed “deep concern” over the de-notification of the villages, noting that many afghan refugees have resided in these communities for decades, building lives and establishing essential support networks. Forcing these individuals to leave within a short timeframe, the agency warned, could have “serious and negative impacts” on their well-being, economic stability, and prospects for successful reintegration should they be compelled to return to Afghanistan.
“The return of refugees should be organised, phased, voluntary, and carried out in dignity and safety, with respect for rights and protection of those in need,” stated Philippa Candler, the UNHCR’s Representative in Pakistan, on wednesday.
The IFRP and Growing International Pressure
The current situation stems from Pakistan’s IFRP, which targets Afghan nationals without valid documentation. While authorities maintain the policy is necessary for national security and to address undocumented migration, critics argue it disproportionately affects vulnerable populations and risks violating international law. The UNHCR has specifically raised concerns about the impact on women and girls, who could face severe restrictions on their rights to work and education upon return to Afghanistan.
“Pakistan has been a generous host to Afghans for more than 45 years,” Candler acknowledged. “There are still many people in Pakistan who would be at risk of persecution should they be obliged to return to Afghanistan. These individuals need to be exempted from the IFRP.”
The agency is urging Islamabad to grant legal status to Afghans with specific vulnerabilities,including those with medical needs,students pursuing higher education,and individuals in mixed marriages. Any returns, the UNHCR insists, must be entirely voluntary and conducted with full respect for human dignity.
Return Numbers Show Recent Decline
Recent data from the World Health Association (WHO) indicates a slight decrease in the number of Afghans returning to Afghanistan. Between mid- and late-September, 73,560 Afghans returned through the five main border crossings with Iran and Pakistan – a 35 percent decrease compared to the preceding two weeks.
The WHO report reveals that the majority of returnees – 61 percent, or 44,878 individuals – came from Iran, while 39 percent (28,682) crossed from Pakistan.The Islam Qala border point was the busiest, facilitating 43 percent (31,907) of all arrivals, while Bahramcha saw the fewest, accounting for just 2.3 percent (1,763).
Analysts suggest the decline in returns could be attributed to shifting migration patterns or temporary logistical challenges, factors that will continue to be monitored closely in the coming weeks. .
The UNHCR has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Pakistani government to find “practical solutions that respect Pakistan’s concerns while upholding international principles.” The
