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Recent reports from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) highlight a troubling trend: over 250,000 Afghans returned to their home country in April alone, including approximately 96,000 who were forcibly deported. The agency has expressed serious concerns about the situation for women and girls, who are increasingly subjected to severe restrictions and repression under Taliban governance.
The influx of returnees is intensifying an already critical humanitarian crisis, exacerbating the difficulties faced by millions of individuals striving to survive. “They face increasing restrictions in terms of access to employment, education, and freedom of movement,” stated UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch.
“We keep emphasizing to the governments of Iran and Pakistan that returns to Afghanistan must be voluntary, safe, and dignified,” he reinforced.
In addition to women and girls, other vulnerable groups, such as forcibly returned human rights activists, journalists, and various ethnic or religious minorities, are facing grave dangers upon their return to Afghanistan.
Significant Humanitarian Needs
The situation is further complicated by escalating humanitarian needs, with an alarming half of the Afghan population now reliant on aid. Since the beginning of 2023, more than 3.5 million individuals have returned to the country.
The sheer number of returnees heightens the risk of additional internal displacement and may lead some individuals to attempt perilous journeys toward Europe, Mr. Baloch warned.
To assist returnees and contribute to regional stabilization, UNHCR is seeking $75 billion. Afghans accounted for the largest segment of irregular arrivals from the Asia Pacific region to Europe in 2024, representing more than 40% of such cases.
The additional funding would enable UNHCR to provide critical support to returnees, including access to essential services, livelihood opportunities, and reintegration assistance, with a specific focus on addressing the needs of women and girls, according to Mr. Baloch.
The agency is also committed to addressing immediate protection requirements and improving its capacity to support those arriving in the country.
Source
news.un.org