There is growing criticism following the Pakistani government’s announcement of a short voluntary departure deadline for ‘illegal’ immigrants, with the majority believed to be Afghans. This decision has raised concerns among various groups and organizations.
According to the latest United Nations figures, approximately 1.3 million Afghans are registered refugees in Pakistan, and an additional 880,000 have legal status to remain. However, caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti claims that a further 1.7 million Afghans are residing in Pakistan illegally.
In response to the announcement, the Afghanistan Embassy in Islamabad has accused the Punjab and Sindh police of conducting a ‘ruthless’ operation against Afghan refugees, arresting women and children without distinguishing between genders.
Amnesty International has also criticized the Pakistani government, alleging that it has created a climate of fear for refugees. Despite repeated promises, the arrest and harassment of Afghan refugees by the police in Pakistan continues.
Former senator Afrasiab Khattak has urged the caretaker government to treat Afghan refugees with compassion, warning that the animosity being sown today will have long-lasting consequences. He emphasized that the intense hatred being bred will only lead to future generations suffering the consequences.
Meena Gabeena, a social worker and activist, highlighted how this policy is particularly detrimental to the Hazara community, specifically children and women who have historically faced violence from the Taliban due to their ‘Hazara face.’ She emphasized the importance of listening to the stories of these individuals, often labeled as ‘illegal immigrants,’ and understanding their innocence.
Usama Khilji, an activist, stated that it is illegal to expel asylum seekers. He called on the Pakistani government to make exceptions for the Afghan people who find themselves in a precarious situation under the Taliban government, where girls have limited access to education and women have no rights.
Asfandyar Khan, a member of Mohsin Dawar’s National Democratic Movement (NDM), also condemned the inhumane treatment of Afghan refugees. He stated that the Pakistani government cannot promote peace by bringing in refugees, training them, and then neglecting their rights. Upholding international laws and human dignity is essential.
Amidst these concerns, a United Nations official opposed the deadline, emphasizing that any refugee return must be voluntary and without pressure. The UNHCR offered assistance to Pakistan in establishing a system for overseeing and recording individuals seeking international protection within its borders, addressing specific vulnerabilities.
While the US State Department acknowledged Pakistan’s importance as a partner in the resettlement of Afghan refugees, the criticisms raised by various organizations and individuals demonstrate the need for a compassionate and human approach to address the complex issue of displaced Afghans in Pakistan.