Afghans who fled to Tajikistan after the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan report facing difficulties with residency and exploitation by entities that claim to support migrants.
An Afghan refugee in Tajikistan told Khaama Press that many refugees, despite possessing all necessary documents for legal residency, are at risk of deportation. He said, “For over a month now, we’ve been under threat of deportation without any valid reason. The Afghanistan Embassy in Tajikistan and other organizations formed to assist migrants are aware of this issue but have taken no action.”
This situation has left refugees highly vulnerable. Many have fallen prey to institutions and offices that claim to resolve migrants’ issues. These entities exploit the vulnerability of refugees by demanding large sums of money in exchange for promises of residency facilitation.
According to the refugee, these offices take advantage of the refugees’ fear of deportation, even though they already have the necessary documents for legal residency in Tajikistan. The looming threat of expulsion has caused significant anxiety among the Afghan migrant community.
The refugees are urging the Tajik government and United Nations offices in Tajikistan to address their plight and ensure fair treatment. They demand an end to exploitation and effective protection against unjust deportation.
Following the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, millions of Afghans were forced to migrate, with thousands fleeing to Tajikistan, Afghanistan’s northern neighbor. According to the Tajikistan Foreign Migrant Administration, as of late 2023, around 6,000 Afghan refugees resided in Tajikistan.
This situation comes amid a dire humanitarian crisis and ongoing persecution in Afghanistan, where countless individuals face threats to their lives and freedoms. The instability has forced many Afghans to flee their homeland, seeking safety and a chance at survival. However, even in exile, challenges like legal insecurity and potential deportation underscore the urgent need for international intervention to protect the rights and dignity of Afghan refugees.
The plight of Afghan refugees in Tajikistan highlights the urgent need for intervention by both Tajik authorities and international organizations. Addressing issues of legal insecurity and exploitation is vital to protect refugees’ rights and ensure their safety. Collaborative efforts can help alleviate their hardships and uphold humanitarian values in the face of displacement and uncertainty.
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