The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations of Afghanistan confirmed today that 101 Afghan nationals, detained in Pakistan for periods ranging from two to five days due to issues with legal residency documentation, have been released from various prisons across Pakistan. The individuals were returned to Afghanistan on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
This release comes as Pakistan begins the second phase of its deportation process, which is impacting Afghan migrants, particularly families holding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC) and those without proper documentation. Since April 1, approximately 6,700 Afghan migrants—comprising 2,874 men, 1,755 women, and 2,071 children—have been expelled from Pakistan.
The deportation has raised significant humanitarian concerns, particularly for the affected families. Human rights organisations have called for a halt to the deportations, warning that they could violate international law and place vulnerable populations, including women and children, in precarious situations.
While efforts to provide reintegration support for the returnees are underway, the ongoing economic challenges in Afghanistan have limited the available resources. The international community is facing a critical moment, with coordinated efforts necessary to address the situation and ensure the protection and support of Afghan migrants, both in Afghanistan and in host countries.
The release of detainees and the continued deportations underscore the complex issues surrounding Afghan migration. The need for comprehensive and cooperative policies, both at the bilateral level between Afghanistan and Pakistan and on the international stage, is clear. Through such cooperation, the rights and well-being of Afghan migrants can be better safeguarded.
