Advocacy groups urge Pakistan to halt Afghan refugee expulsions

Kabul [Afghanistan], March 3 (ANI): A coalition of human rights organizations and refugee advocacy groups has urged the Pakistani government to halt the forced expulsion of Afghan migrants, citing violations of international law, basic human rights, and the country's obligations, as reported by Khaama Press.
In an open letter, the groups emphasized that many Afghan refugees, including human rights defenders and activists, have fled their homeland due to violence, harassment, and persecution.
As per reports, the letter also points out that Afghan migrants, including women, children, and those with valid visas, are being subjected to forced expulsion, detention, and high visa fees.
Khaama Press reported that the Pakistani government has set a March 31 deadline for Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement in Western countries like the US, UK, Germany, France, and Australia to leave Pakistan, with those failing to comply facing forced expulsion.
However, the groups argue that this move would put immense pressure on Afghan migrants, who are already facing forced migration, detention, exorbitant visa costs, and mass expulsion.
The organisations have urged both- the Pakistani government and the international community to halt the expulsion process and ensure the legal protection and safety of Afghan refugees, particularly vulnerable women and children.
In recent years, the Pakistani government has begun to view the prolonged stay of Afghan refugees as a strain on resources and a potential security threat, especially after the rise of groups like the Taliban.
Recently, Pakistan initiated expulsions, citing illegal residency and security risks. These expulsions have sparked debates over human rights, regional stability, and Pakistan's responsibility toward its Afghan neighbours.
They stressed that refugees cannot be penalized or coerced into expulsion and that international laws regarding the treatment of refugees must be respected.
According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Pakistan has expelled over 825,600 Afghan nationals since September 2023 as part of its "Illegal Foreigners' Repatriation Plan." The UNHCR has expressed concern over the forced deportations, highlighting that they have raised significant international alarm. (ANI)