Afghanistan Peace CampaignInternational organizations and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan have repeatedly called on host countries to prevent the forced deportation of Afghan migrants.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported that more than 6.04 million Afghan citizens returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan between September 2023 to May 2026.
According to the report, beyond changing patterns of population movement, the scale and speed of this return wave have created significant challenges for reintegration and strengthening long-term resilience in Afghanistan.
The organization emphasized that effective reintegration strategies and timely support are essential for enhancing community resilience and the absorption capacity of host communities.
The report states that many returnees, some of whom have spent decades or even their entire lives abroad, arrive with limited social networks, little familiarity with local systems and norms, and restricted access to housing, livelihood opportunities, public services, civil documentation, and support mechanisms. The report also reads that effective reintegration strategies and timely assistance are therefore not only critical for the well-being and stability of returnees, but are also necessary for strengthening community resilience and the absorption capacity of host communities, contributing to greater social cohesion and solidarity.
Abdul Zohor Modaber, an economic analyst, said: “Some returnees possess valuable skills, expertise, and knowledge and can contribute productively to the country’s workforce and economy. However, others lack the necessary skills and education, and the government needs to provide them with full support.”
Nader Khan, who left for Pakistan 43 years ago and has now returned to Afghanistan at the age of 52, described the difficulties migrants have faced in recent years in Pakistan.
Speaking to TOLOnews, he said: “The detention and imprisonment of migrants increased, so we left and came back. We have no concerns; we have returned to our own country and will work here.”
Another returnee from Pakistan, Shah Mahmood, said: “Our request from the Islamic Emirate is to provide us with employment opportunities and educational opportunities for our children, especially our daughters.”
Experts believe that the forced return of Afghan citizens requires a coordinated response between aid organizations and the Islamic Emirate to ensure that returnees receive proper support.
Ali Reza Karimi, a migrant rights activist, said: “International organizations should support returnees through temporary shelter, humanitarian assistance, education, and job creation. At the same time, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan should facilitate returnees’ access to employment, education, and essential services.”
International organizations and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan have repeatedly called on host countries to prevent the forced deportation of Afghan migrants.