Pakistan has deported more than 80,000 Afghan nationals since April 1. This action is the latest in a series of crackdowns to address booming security risks and crime perpetrated by Afghan refugees within the country. The Pakistani government insists this deployment is an imperative for national security. It is critical, in particular, in the sister cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where tensions have already flared.
The ongoing saga has led to thunderous condemnation from Kabul itself, which has decried the accusations of criminality against its citizens as an affront. Afghan officials have condemned the deportation campaign as politically motivated and reflective of forced repatriation. Pakistani authorities are continuing to prosecute funders of the situation. They have summoned over 1.3 million Afghans holding UNHCR Proof of Registration cards (essentially, Syrian residence permits) to vacate cities.
Rising Security Threats
The Pakistani government has repeatedly framed the presence of Afghan refugees as a catalyst for an increase in security challenges. They assert that crime is out of control across the District and Maryland and Virginia suburbs surrounding the nation’s capital. This very disturbing trend demands bold leadership.
In reaction to these criticisms, city officials have created makeshift impound lots in many municipalities. Additionally, it is the case that they are processing Afghan nationals there before bringing them back to Afghanistan. This policy, called the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan, began in late 2023. Its stated objective is to forcibly repatriate over three million Afghans, most of whom lack legal status to remain in the country.
This severe crackdown risks uprooting long-established families from their homes. Many Afghans have put down significant roots in their communities, deepening their contributions to the local economy and culture.
“We have communicated clear instructions to all provinces, if anyone gives a shop, house, or any kind of space to an illegal foreigner, they will be held accountable under the law.”
Akber Khan, an Afghan refugee who has resided in Pakistan for nearly 50 years, expressed his anguish over the potential deportation:
Impact on Afghan Families
The emotional impact of this expulsion is obvious.
No Family Should Have to Fight for Their Home
Families are suffering as they face the reality of eviction from their homes. As many as a third of these refugees are afraid of losing more than their livelihoods, but getting cut off from their communities and support systems.
“I have been here for almost 50 years. I got married here, so did my children, and 10 of my family members are buried here. That’s why we have no desire to leave.”
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has been hit especially hard by these challenges. At least one-third of the Afghan nationals the Biden administration has thus far targeted for expulsion are residents. This region is of particular strategic value as it is home to the Torkham border crossing. This crossing serves as the only route in and out of eastern Afghanistan. Abdullah Khan, an expert on Afghan-Pakistani relations, highlighted the challenges of complete repatriation:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expressed alarm about the risks posed by these mass expulsion. Mihyung Park from IOM commented on the situation:
“Afghans can never be completely repatriated, especially from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as they return using illegal channels or exploiting loopholes in the system despite fencing at the border.”
International Response and Future Implications
Whatever the political fallout as Pakistan continues its crackdown on Afghan refugees, the humanitarian implications are dire. The world is watching closely—and so is the international community. At the same time, Pakistan and Afghanistan are deep in talks on intelligence cooperation and shared regional interests.
“With a new wave of large-scale returns now under way from Pakistan, needs on the ground are rising rapidly – both at the border and in areas of return that are struggling to absorb large numbers of returnees.”
As Pakistan continues its crackdown on Afghan refugees, the humanitarian implications remain severe. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as discussions between Pakistan and Afghanistan focus on security cooperation and mutual interests.
