Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Afghan P1 and P2 case holders in Pakistan urgently appeal for the resumption of USRAP, relocation, and essential support for their families’ well-being.
On 4th July 2025, Afghan holders of P1 and P2 refugee cases, residing in Pakistan, formally protested and sent a written letter to the Khaama Press, voicing their deep concerns regarding the suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) and the grave humanitarian crisis they are currently facing. The group of Afghan refugees, who had previously worked alongside U.S. institutions and projects, called for immediate action to address their plight, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing suspension of USRAP and their uncertain future.
The P1 and P2 case holders are Afghan refugees who, for years, collaborated with U.S. forces and institutions on various projects, including military support, interpretation, and advisory roles. As part of their commitment to rebuilding Afghanistan, they followed official guidance from the U.S. Department of State and applied for resettlement under USRAP. Having completed all necessary requirements, including medical checks, security screenings, and interviews, they were on the verge of being relocated when the new U.S. administration suspended the program. This suspension has left them stranded in Pakistan, where they have endured severe living conditions for over three years.
The protestors conveyed their dire circumstances, emphasizing that their lives remain in limbo, unable to move forward or return to Afghanistan, which is under a regime known for widespread human rights abuses. They highlighted several pressing concerns:
Humanitarian Crisis: The protestors outlined the psychological and physical toll of their current situation, noting that the uncertainty surrounding their resettlement has led to tragic consequences. Four case holders have died as a result of suicide, strokes, or heart attacks, unable to bear the inhumane conditions any longer.
Impact on Children: Children of P1 and P2 case holders are particularly vulnerable, facing a lack of education, healthcare, and psychological support. These children, who are innocent victims of war and violence, wake up each day asking when they will be able to leave their current situation, highlighting the emotional and mental strain they are enduring.
Risk of Persecution: With no legal protection in Pakistan and a return to Afghanistan posing significant risks of death, torture, and persecution, the protestors are calling for immediate action to prevent further harm to themselves and their families.
Demands and Appeals
- Immediate Reactivation of USRAP: The protestors called on the U.S. government to immediately resume the resettlement process for P1 and P2 case holders who have completed all necessary requirements in Pakistan. They requested that the U.S. authorities take swift action to ensure that their relocation process is expedited.
- Reinstatement of Flights and Expedited Relocation: The refugees demanded that the canceled flights be reinstated and relocation to their destination countries be prioritized without further delay.
- Comprehensive Support for Affected Families: The protestors called for comprehensive psychological, educational, medical, and legal support for themselves and their families to help mitigate the ongoing harm caused by their prolonged stay in Pakistan.
- Intervention by IOM and UNHCR: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) were urged to intervene immediately and address the concerns of the P1 and P2 case holders. The protestors highlighted the importance of IOM and UNHCR fulfilling their protective roles to ensure the safety and well-being of these refugees.
The protest of the Afghan P1 and P2 case holders, as conveyed through their letter to Khaama Press, is a call for urgent humanitarian action. After years of service to U.S. institutions, they now face an uncertain future, stranded in a foreign country with no clear path forward. The written protest seeks to draw attention to the gravity of their situation, urging both the U.S. government and international organizations to take immediate and decisive action to address their concerns.
The protestors continue to hold onto hope that their two-decade-long partnership with the U.S. will not be forgotten, and that the promises made to them will be fulfilled. Their final plea is for a chance to live with dignity and security, as they await a resolution to their resettlement process.