Afghan Journalists in Pakistan Plead for Global Intervention to Stop Deportations

Afghan Journalists in Pakistan Plead for Global Intervention to Stop Deportations
———————————–
Exiled Afghan journalists living in Pakistan are calling on the international community to take immediate action to stop forced deportations, warning that the lives of many are at risk, Khaama press reported. These journalists, who fled Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return to power, are now facing the threat of being sent back to a country where their safety is in jeopardy.

On Saturday, August 9, the journalists issued an urgent appeal to the Pakistani government and global organizations. Their plea comes after Pakistan suspended visa extensions and increased the arrests and deportations of Afghan refugees, creating an atmosphere of constant fear. The journalists reported that some refugees, including women and children, have been forced to live on the streets due to the crackdown.

While acknowledging the hospitality of the Pakistani people, the journalists emphasized the need for all deportations to be conducted in accordance with international human rights standards. Media rights activists have voiced concerns that the continued expulsions could lead to a humanitarian crisis, endanger press freedom, and have irreversible consequences. With legal pathways and visa renewals stalled, the journalists’ risk of forced return has increased dramatically.