The recent decision by the federal government of Pakistan to repatriate over 1.1 million Afghan nationals residing in the country illegally is a significant step that is expected to have positive impacts on the country’s economy and overall security situation. Pakistan has a long history of hosting Afghan refugees, but addressing the issue of illegal residency has become imperative for various reasons.
Pakistan has been a generous host to millions of Afghan refugees since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Over 1.29 million Afghans residing in Pakistan were registered by March 2022, and potentially millions more go unregistered. The situation has created a burden on Pakistan’s resources and infrastructure for decades.
In October 2022, an agreement in principle was reached between Afghanistan, Pakistan and UNHCR, establishing a formal process for the return of Afghan refugees. This agreement aimed to support a gradual and organized repatriation process, ensuring sustainability. UNHCR agreed to assist in the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan for three more years, after which those remaining would undergo screening to identify individuals who might face danger upon return, providing them with security and protection.
However, the influx of approximately 400,000 Afghan nationals into Pakistan following the return of the Afghan Taliban to Afghanistan in August 2021 raised significant concerns. Some of these individuals were suspected of engaging in illicit activities, including terrorism, currency smuggling and the illegal trade of essential commodities. Approximately 0.7 million Afghans had not renewed their proof of residence in Pakistan, exacerbating the issue of illegal residency.
The government’s plan to execute the eviction in three phases is a well-thought-out approach. The first phase focuses on deporting individuals residing in Pakistan without proper documentation or those who have failed to renew their visas. Subsequent phases will address the status of Afghan citizens and proof of residence card holders. Regional experts speculate that the federal government’s crackdown on Afghan nationals is also intended to put pressure on the Kabul administration to curb the activities of the militant network Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, which has been a source of instability in the region.
We can say that Pakistan’s decision to repatriate Afghan nationals residing in the country illegally is a necessary step to safeguard its security and economic interests. It demonstrates a commitment to addressing long-standing challenges and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. While this decision may be met with some challenges and concerns, it is ultimately a positive move towards a more stable and secure future for both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
