Nearly 45,000 Afghan refugees have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan in the past ten days, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), amid an ongoing repatriation campaign.
The UNHCR stated that between April 1 and April 11, a total of 44,900 Afghan nationals crossed back into Afghanistan, reflecting a 31 percent increase compared to the first ten days of the initial repatriation wave in November 2023. Of these, 14,100 individuals returned through formal processes facilitated by authorities, with most crossings recorded at Torkham and Spin Boldak.
The UN agency acknowledged the complex factors surrounding these returns and noted that many of the individuals had initially arrived in Pakistan due to difficult conditions in Afghanistan, including economic hardship and limited access to services. It expressed concern over the challenges returnees may face, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children.
Humanitarian partners, including the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), have provided immediate assistance to 2,614 individuals, though pressure on shelter and essential services remains a key concern.
Pakistan has consistently maintained that its repatriation policy is driven by national security and economic considerations, and has emphasised its longstanding role in hosting millions of Afghan refugees over several decades.
The UNHCR and other international organisations have called for continued dialogue and cooperation to ensure that refugee returns take place in a safe, dignified, and voluntary manner. They have also urged the global community to provide increased support to Afghanistan in meeting the needs of returning families.
The situation, observers note, underscores the importance of coordinated international efforts to address the humanitarian needs of displaced populations and support host countries navigating complex migration dynamics.
