Afghanistan Peace Campaign
The UK Ministry of Defence has announced that more than 2,000 Afghan commandos, who had valid service records with units supported by the UK, have been unsuccessful in securing resettlement in the country. These commandos were part of various training and support programs facilitated by the UK in Afghanistan.
According to a report by BBC, these Afghan forces had been part of UK-funded programs, and their expenses were covered by the UK government. Despite their previous service with UK-supported units, these commandos are now facing the rejection of their resettlement applications.
Mike Martin, a member of the UK Parliament and a former military officer with experience in Afghanistan, expressed concerns over this decision, calling it “extremely worrying.” He emphasized the implications of the UK’s failure to provide a safe relocation for these individuals, who had previously worked alongside British forces.
The UK Ministry of Defence has confirmed that over 2,000 Afghan commandos have had their resettlement requests denied. These individuals had valid records of service with units that had operated under British support in Afghanistan, yet they have been denied the opportunity to seek refuge in the UK.
In the past, the UK implemented several programs to help resettle individuals who had collaborated with British forces. One such program was the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP), which allowed local personnel, including translators and Afghan staff, to relocate to the UK. Additionally, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) was set up to support Afghan nationals who were at risk.
The rejection of these commandos’ resettlement requests raises concerns about the UK’s commitment to its allies who have served with British forces in Afghanistan. The denial of resettlement not only affects the individuals involved but also sends a troubling message about the safety and treatment of those who have supported foreign military operations.
The situation of Afghan commandos denied resettlement in the UK is a major humanitarian concern. As the world watches, it is essential that the UK and other nations fulfill their obligations to those who stood by them in Afghanistan.