The Commission for Addressing Migrants’ Challenges has reported that nearly 2,500 Afghan nationals have been released from prisons in Iran and Pakistan and repatriated to Afghanistan over the past month, officials confirmed.
According to the commission, the majority of the detainees were arrested primarily due to the absence of valid residency documentation. Many returnees either lacked legal papers entirely or were carrying documents that had expired, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by Afghan migrants in the region.
The length of detention varied widely, with some individuals held for as little as one day, while others remained in custody for up to two months. Upon their release, the repatriated Afghans were transferred to Afghanistan through coordinated efforts involving the commission and relevant authorities.
Upon arrival, returnees received initial support services to ensure their safe reintegration. These services included identity verification and data registration, provision of emergency humanitarian assistance, and arrangements to facilitate their transportation to their respective home provinces.
Ahmadullah Wasiq, spokesperson for the commission, emphasized that while Afghan migrants were detained for various reasons, the lack of proper documentation remained the primary cause. He also reiterated the commission’s ongoing commitment to working with national and regional authorities to support returning migrants and address their immediate needs.
The recent wave of repatriations underscores the importance of providing Afghan migrants with timely legal documentation and support, as well as ensuring safe and dignified returns for those affected by detention abroad. The commission continues to coordinate closely with all relevant stakeholders to enhance support mechanisms for returning nationals and to strengthen policies aimed at protecting migrant rights.
These efforts reflect Afghanistan’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad and to mitigating the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of cross-border migration and legal compliance issues.
