Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Pakistan has suspended the detention and deportation of registered Afghan migrants until further notice.
The ruling comes amid a broader crackdown by the Pakistani government on undocumented migrants, particularly focusing on the expulsion of those without proper documentation. The second phase of the deportation process began last week, raising widespread concerns among Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
The human rights organization has called on the Pakistani government to halt the expulsion of Afghan refugees immediately. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the organization emphasized that Pakistan should take corrective measures in accordance with international human rights laws.
Pakistan has been hosting millions of Afghan refugees, many of whom fled to the country due to ongoing conflict and insecurity in Afghanistan. PoR cardholders are registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and are legally allowed to stay in Pakistan.
Despite the court’s ruling, the Pakistani government is under intense pressure, both domestically and internationally, to address the growing issue of undocumented migrants. The situation has prompted various human rights groups to voice concerns over the potential violation of international refugee protection laws.
Some observers have noted that while the court’s order provides temporary protection to PoR cardholders, it does not resolve the long-term uncertainty faced by Afghan refugees. There is growing concern that further actions may be taken against migrants once the immunity period expires.
For now, Afghan refugees with PoR cards can breathe a sigh of relief, but the looming question remains: will Pakistan continue to protect these refugees beyond the end of June, or will the pressure to expel them increase?
This decision underscores the fragile status of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, where political instability and security concerns continue to affect the lives of millions. The international community will likely continue to monitor the situation closely.
Meanwhile, the ruling provides immediate relief to PoR cardholders, it is only a temporary measure. The broader issue of refugee protection in Pakistan requires a long-term solution that respects international human rights standards and addresses the underlying political and security challenges facing both Afghan migrants and Pakistan.