Pakistan to Repatriate 1.5 million Afghan Refugees Despite International Concerns

Pakistan announced plans to repatriate an additional 1.5 million registered Afghan refugees, Amu TV reported citing Munir Akram, the country’s permanent representative at the UN.

This brings the total number of refugees slated for return to 3 million, including the one million unregistered Afghans previously targeted for expulsion.

The decision has drawn criticism from the UNHCR and human rights groups who argue it violates refugee rights and constitutes forced repatriation. Pakistan, however, defends its stance, citing decades of hosting millions of refugees and reduced support from developed nations.

This move follows a controversial November 2023 plan targeting undocumented Afghans, highlighting Pakistan’s growing resolve to address the refugee situation despite international pressure.