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Pakistan Rejects Afghan Claims of Refugee Mistreatment
Pakistan denies Afghan allegations of mistreatment of refugees, stressing its decades-long hospitality and dignified repatriation efforts. Over 18,000 Afghan nationals returned in January alone.
ND
by News Desk
2025-02-19
Pakistan Rejects Afghan Claims of Refugee Mistreatment

The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan has firmly rejected claims by the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad that Afghan refugees are being mistreated, stating that they are being repatriated with "respect and dignity."

FO Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan emphasized Pakistan’s long-standing support for Afghan refugees, urging Kabul to ensure smooth reintegration of returnees.

His remarks came in response to allegations from the Afghan Charge d’Affaires, who claimed Afghan nationals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi were being arrested and forced to leave the twin cities without notice.

Pakistan’s Response: Respectful Repatriation

Dismissing these claims as "misplaced," the FO stated:

  • Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees for decades with limited international support.
  • The Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP) ensures a structured, fair repatriation process.
  • Pakistan has engaged Afghan authorities to facilitate the safe return of refugees.

"While Pakistan has done what it could, we expect interim Afghan authorities to create conducive conditions in Afghanistan so that these returnees are fully integrated into Afghan society," Khan said.

He added that the real responsibility lies with Afghan authorities to protect the rights of returning refugees.

IOM Reports Surge in Afghan Repatriations

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM):

  • Over 18,000 Afghan nationals returned from Islamabad and Rawalpindi in January 2025 alone.
  • Deportations have increased in the second half of the month.
  • 824,568 Afghans have returned since September 15, 2023.

Most returnees are adults aged 18-59 (46%), followed by children aged 5-17 (30%).

The report also noted:

  • 502 children under 10 received polio vaccinations at border crossings.
  • 10% of returnee households were led by women.
  • More men (52%) than women (48%) returned.

What’s Next?

Pakistan continues to stress its commitment to humane repatriation, while urging Kabul to ensure the safety and reintegration of returnees. With thousands still being repatriated, the issue remains a key point of discussion between the two nations.
Tagged:

Pakistan

Diplomacy

afghanrefugees

Repatriation
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