UNHCR urges Pakistan to stop the return of Afghan refugees

He expressed his concern about the ordeal of women and girls who were sent to Afghanistan, which was under the rule of the Taliban for four years.

On July 31, Pakistan confirmed that Afghan refugees will be deported under the ongoing “plan to return illegal parts”.

United Nations Refugee Affairs Commission He received reports of arrest and detention of Afghans throughout the country, including holders of Por Cards.

Violation of the principle of not returning

Mr. Balush said: “We click and appreciate the generosity of Pakistan in hosting refugees for more than 40 years, amid its challenges,” said Mr. Baloch.

However, given that those who carry Por cards have been recognized as refugees for contracts, Their forced return contradicts the long -term humanitarian approach to this group It will violate the principle of non -repetition. “

The situation is revealed amid a collective return of Afghans from neighboring countries, including Iran.

This year, more than 2.1 million have already returned or forced to return to Afghanistan, including 352,000 Pakistan.

Listen to our interview with Arafat Jamal, the representative of the Commission in Afghanistan, for the returnees coming from Iran.

Attention to women and girls

“The UNHCR is still concerned about women and girls forced to return to a country where human rights are at risk.“In addition to other groups that may be at risk,” said Mr. Baloch.

He urged the authorities to ensure that any returns are voluntary, safe and generous.

Moreover, the UNHCR continued to search for the health of Por cards, which ended at the end of June, and welcomed the additional “allowance” period for one month that Pakistan granted it.

“The Commission strongly urges the government of Pakistan to implement measures to exempt Afghans with the continued international protection needs From involuntary return.

“We also appeal to the Pakistani intention to allow the legal residence of the Afghans with medical needs, or those who are currently following higher education, or mixed marriage.”

Long -term effect

He said that the return of Afghans widely from neighboring countries was subjected to tremendous pressure on basic services, housing and ways of living, as well as host societies.

Public policy increases a humanitarian crisis already marching in Afghanistan. According to the United Nations Coordination Office Ushaand Almost half of the population Nearly 23 million people – they will require humanitarian assistance this year to survive.

Mr. Balush warned that “collective and hasty revenues significantly increase protection needs, instability in risk in Afghanistan and the region, including the movement forward.”