Afghan Refugees in Tajikistan Face Legal and Exploitation Challenges

Afghan refugees in Tajikistan are grappling with significant challenges related to residency and exploitation by organizations claiming to assist migrants, Khaama Press reported. Many refugees, despite having all necessary legal documents, report threats of deportation. An Afghan refugee shared with Khaama Press, “For over a month now, we’ve been under threat of deportation without any valid reason.”

The situation has left refugees vulnerable to exploitation by entities that demand large sums of money in exchange for promises of residency facilitation. These offices prey on the fear of deportation, despite the refugees’ legal status.

With approximately 6,000 Afghan refugees currently in Tajikistan, as reported by the Tajikistan Foreign Migrant Administration, the community is calling on the Tajik government and United Nations offices to address their plight. They seek protection against unjust deportation and an end to exploitation.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, marked by threats to life and freedom, has forced millions to flee. The challenges faced by Afghan refugees in Tajikistan highlight the urgent need for international intervention to safeguard their rights and dignity amid ongoing legal insecurity.