The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have announced their readiness to provide support in registering and managing Afghan nationals in Pakistan. This statement comes in the midst of the Pakistani government’s crackdown on illegal immigrants, including Afghan nationals.
The Pakistani government earlier issued an ultimatum to all undocumented immigrants, including Afghan nationals, to leave the country by October 31 or face imprisonment and deportation. The government’s decision faced criticism from various quarters, including Afghan authorities and humanitarian organizations.
In their joint statement, the UNHCR and IOM emphasized their longstanding collaboration with Pakistan and expressed their willingness to support the development of a comprehensive and sustainable mechanism for registering and managing Afghan nationals. They also appealed to Pakistan to continue protecting vulnerable Afghans who have sought safety in the country, emphasizing the need for safe, dignified, and voluntary returns.
The UN agencies called on all countries to suspend forcible returns of Afghan nationals and ensure that any possible returns to Afghanistan are conducted in a safe and dignified manner. They highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis and human rights challenges in Afghanistan, particularly for women and girls.
While acknowledging Pakistan’s sovereign prerogatives, the UNHCR and IOM emphasized the importance of voluntary, safe, and dignified returns for those seeking safety. They raised concerns about potential human rights violations, including family separation and the deportation of minors, in the event of forced repatriation.
Despite criticism, the Pakistani government has maintained its policy of repatriating undocumented immigrants, citing public safety and security concerns. The government’s crackdown has led to the arrest and detention of foreign nationals, including Afghan immigrants, in various parts of the country.
