Pakistan suspends deportation of Afghan migrants

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced the conclusion of a three-day visit by the UNHCR High Commissioner to Islamabad and said that the plan to expel illegal Afghan migrants from Pakistan has been put on hold.

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 9, the organization wrote that Filippo Grandi, UNHCR High Commissioner, during his three-day visit to Islamabad, called on Pakistani authorities to show hospitality to Afghan migrants.

He also called for increased efforts to find lasting solutions for Afghans in Pakistan and support for their host communities.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that during his talks with Pakistani authorities, Mr Grandi had called for a timely renewal of Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, a key identity document held by over 1.3 million Afghan refugees.

The statement further stressed that the UNHCR Commissioner welcomed Pakistan’s decision to suspend the “plan for the repatriation of illegal aliens”.

Despite this suspension, forced deportations of Afghan refugees continue amid a severe humanitarian crisis. Many Afghans face an uncertain future as they are forced to leave Pakistan, where they have sought refuge for years.

The abrupt interruption of their lives represents a major challenge, exacerbating already dire conditions in Afghanistan and placing additional strain on humanitarian resources.

UNHCR calls on Pakistan and other host countries to respect international principles on refugee protection and ensure that all returns are voluntary, dignified and in accordance with humanitarian standards.

The international community, including neighbouring countries and humanitarian organisations, must work together to address the underlying causes of displacement and create sustainable solutions that prioritise the safety and well-being of Afghan refugees in the face of ongoing instability in the region.