The Taliban has requested Pakistan and Iran to slow the return of Afghan refugees due to Afghanistan’s poor economic conditions, highlighting the need for organized repatriation processes. Since August 2021, over 2.7 million Afghans have been returned, with both nations implementing expulsion campaigns in response to security concerns. Ongoing discussions with diplomatic officials emphasize cooperative problem-solving for refugee issues.
The Taliban has urged neighboring nations, Pakistan and Iran, to approach the return of Afghan refugees with patience due to Afghanistan’s challenging economic circumstances. Since the end of the U.S.-led war in August 2021, over 2.7 million Afghans have been returned, creating a pressure on the local infrastructure.
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, acting minister for refugees, held separate discussions with officials from Pakistan and Iran in Kabul, emphasizing the importance of an organized process for the refugees. The Taliban’s statement noted, “Islamic Emirate encourages Afghan refugees to return to the country,” but stressed the need for a gradual and organized return rather than forced repatriation in light of domestic difficulties.
Pakistan initiated a security-driven expulsion campaign in late 2023, resulting in over 825,000 Afghans leaving the country, with only a minor portion being formally deported. A multistage plan targeting nearly 3 million Afghan citizens was adopted, focusing on both documented and undocumented migrants.
As part of this plan, initially, documented Afghan migrants and those without documentation will be repatriated. Although the Proof of Registration (POR) cards for refugees were extended until June 2025, the longer-term expulsion plan will address POR card holders at a later date.
Iran has also been involved in a mass deportation campaign, sending back over 1.8 million Afghans from 2022 to 2024, with plans to deport an additional 2 million by March 2025. Kabir urged both nations to slow down returns until proper bilateral agreements are established.
During meetings, the Pakistani diplomat Nizamani emphasized that refugees should not be used politically, stating Pakistan’s future is intertwined with Afghanistan, which necessitates cooperative problem-solving. Additionally, Iranian ambassador Bekdali called for a permanent solution regarding the legal status of Afghan migrants in Iran, indicating a need for legal documentation and rights protection.
The Taliban’s call for a more measured approach to Afghan refugee returns highlights the ongoing humanitarian challenges facing the country. Both Pakistan and Iran are grappling with significant refugee populations resulting from the political instability in Afghanistan. With pressure from international rights organizations, the necessity for organized repatriation amid economic difficulties remains crucial for vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
