The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced the conclusion of a three-day visit by the UNHCR’s High Commissioner to Islamabad and stated that the plan to expel illegal Afghan migrants from Pakistan has been suspended.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 9th, the organization wrote that Filippo Grandi, the High Commissioner of UNHCR, during his three-day visit to Islamabad, urged Pakistani authorities to show hospitality towards Afghan migrants.
He also called for strengthened efforts towards durable solutions for Afghans in Pakistan and support for their host communities.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has stated that Mr. Grandi, during his discussions with Pakistani authorities, called for a timely extension of Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. This is a crucial identity document held by over 1.3 million Afghan refugees.
The statement further emphasizes that the UNHCR Commissioner appreciates Pakistan’s decision to suspend the “plan to repatriate illegal foreign nationals.”
Despite this suspension, the forced deportation of Afghan refugees continues amid a severe humanitarian crisis. Many Afghans face uncertain futures as they are compelled to leave Pakistan, where they have sought refuge for years.
The abrupt disruption of their lives poses significant challenges, exacerbating the already dire conditions in Afghanistan and straining humanitarian resources.
UNHCR has urged Pakistan and other host countries to uphold international refugee protection principles and ensure that any returns are voluntary, dignified, and in line with humanitarian standards.
The international community, including neighboring countries and humanitarian organizations, must collaborate to address the underlying causes of displacement and create sustainable solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of Afghan refugees amidst ongoing instability in the region.
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