A message circulating on WhatsApp groups in Pakistan claims that the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced the termination of all services for Afghan refugees in Pakistan starting from 17 August 2025.
This rumour surfaced around the same time that Pakistan announced plans to repatriate more than 1.3 million Afghan refugees holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, beginning 1 September.
This claim is false.
The Claim
Social media and WhatsApp groups are circulating posts alleging that:
“The United Nations agency for Afghan refugees (UNHCR) has announced it will cease all services for Afghan refugees in Pakistan from 17 August 2025.”
These posts are often accompanied by the UNHCR logo, lending a false sense of authenticity.
The Facts
This claim is false. UNHCR has confirmed that it continues to provide support and services to Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan.
Speaking to a news channel via telephone, Qaisar Khan Afridi, spokesperson for UNHCR based in Islamabad, categorically denied the rumors, stating:
“These are fake claims. We have also refuted this on our official social media channels. You can check our Facebook page where we have clearly dismissed this false information.”
He further clarified that UNHCR’s operations and programs in Pakistan are continuing as usual, with no change in the scope or delivery of services.
Afridi also highlighted that UNHCR has been working in Pakistan since 1979, consistently offering assistance to refugees through formal programs and initiatives.
In addition, UNHCR’s official Facebook page has also labeled the viral claim as fake, urging people not to believe or spread misinformation.
