The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has revealed in its latest report that over half a million Afghans have left their country in the past three months. During the same period, approximately 850,000 Afghans have returned to their homeland from Iran and Pakistan, with a significant portion of these returns being forced expulsions. These actions not only exemplify the use of force against refugees but also represent a clear violation of international refugee rights.
According to the IOM report, nearly 550,000 people migrated from Afghanistan to other countries between April and June, showing a 19% increase compared to the first three months of the current year. The report attributes the primary cause of this increase in migration to the dire economic situation in Afghanistan.
Among the refugees traveling to Iran, one in three reported that they had never traveled abroad before. The IOM report states that the main reasons for migration to Iran are domestic economic problems and unemployment. Similarly, many Afghans go to Pakistan to visit family and relatives or for health reasons, with only 10% citing economic difficulties as their reason for going to Pakistan.
The forced repatriation of refugees has increased, worsening the lives of Afghan refugees. The IOM report indicates that the primary reason for the return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran is the forced repatriation by local governments. These actions have severe psychological and social impacts on Afghans, creating additional problems for them.
Pakistan and Iran must stop the forced deportation of Afghan refugees and respect their human rights. International refugee laws and principles should be upheld, and instead of forcibly deporting refugees, these countries should provide suitable living conditions for them. The role of the international community is also crucial in this regard. International assistance and support can improve the condition of Afghan refugees and provide them with better living conditions.
On the other hand, the caretaker government of Afghanistan must improve the domestic economic situation, prevent unemployment, and create suitable conditions for people’s lives. It is the responsibility of the Afghan government to provide work and living conditions for its people so that they are not compelled to leave their country.
In conclusion, Pakistan and Iran should respect the human rights of refugees and stop forcibly deporting them. The collaboration and support of the international community and the Afghan caretaker government can bring about positive changes in this regard.