In recent months, the Pakistani government has adopted a policy against Afghan refugees that not only violates international humanitarian principles but also severely damages relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Pakistan has hosted Afghan refugees for decades, but its recent move to forcibly expel them is another form of humanitarian crisis that must be stopped immediately.
The process of forced deportation of Afghan refugees by Pakistani authorities continues under harsh conditions, which not only violates international law but also poses a serious threat to the lives of thousands of vulnerable Afghans. Many refugees, who have lived in Pakistan for years, have no alternative residence. Their displacement and forced return to Afghanistan violate their human rights and present a major concern for international organizations.
Pakistan has taken strict measures to enforce its policy against Afghan refugees, including treating them like prisoners, forcibly evicting them, detaining them, and confiscating their property. These actions are not only inhumane but also contribute to the further deterioration of relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. This issue should be resolved based on mutual respect between the two countries rather than through coercion.
On the other hand, international laws have specific principles for the protection of refugees, and no country is allowed to deport refugees without proper humanitarian assessment. The United Nations Refugee Convention, to which Pakistan is a signatory, obliges governments to provide refugees with safe living conditions and prohibits their forced expulsion. Unfortunately, Pakistan is violating these principles and adopting a policy of coercion.
The forced deportation of Afghan refugees will also severely impact regional stability. Many refugees who have businesses, homes, and livelihoods in Pakistan are facing serious economic difficulties due to their displacement. This issue not only affects Afghanistan’s economy but also damages Pakistan’s economic situation, as many refugees have been contributing to Pakistan as workers, traders, and investors.
Afghanistan, which is striving for economic and social stability after decades of war, is not in a position to suddenly accommodate thousands of returning refugees. The only solution to this crisis is for Pakistan to abandon its hardline policies and adopt a humane approach toward Afghan refugees.
To put an end to this humanitarian crisis, the international community, the United Nations, the UNHCR, and human rights organizations must take serious action. Pakistan must be convinced to respect legal and humanitarian principles and provide alternative solutions for refugees.
If this issue is not addressed, it will have serious consequences for peace and stability in the region. Pakistan must immediately halt its policy of forced deportation, as continued hostility toward Afghan refugees will not only damage bilateral relations but also create a deep sense of resentment and distrust between the people of both countries.
