افزایش فشار بر مهاجران افغان در پاکستان؛ از تخریب خانه‌ها تا اخراج اجباری

Afghan refugees in Pakistan are once again speaking out about escalating challenges and rising fears.

According to them, Pakistani police have recently announced in some mosques that anyone who assists Afghan refugees, whether by renting them homes or shops will be considered a criminal by the government.

Atiqullah Mansoor, an Afghan refugee in Pakistan, said: “A large number of Afghan refugees, including children, women, and the elderly, have been held in Pakistani detention centers for over fifteen days, living in extremely harsh conditions.”

Meanwhile, other refugees report that, in addition to demolishing shelters, the Pakistani government has intensified arrests and forced deportations.

These refugees are once again calling on the Pakistani government to halt the demolition of their homes, requesting that they be allowed to remain in Pakistan at least through the winter.

Malak Mujahid Khan Shinwari, another Afghan refugee in Pakistan, stated: “Winter has already started. Many of the remaining homes of Afghan refugees here have been demolished. We urge the Pakistani government to stop destroying the rest of the homes, because otherwise, refugees will be left without shelter and with nowhere to go. On top of that, the government has warned locals not to rent homes to Afghan refugees, or they will face legal consequences.”

Nazar Nazari, a migrant rights activist, said: “The solution to this crisis lies in diplomatic negotiations between the governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan, negotiations that must aim to stop home demolitions and prevent forced deportations. In parallel, coordination with international organizations is essential to provide shelter, food, healthcare, and job opportunities. Implementing such strategies can help reduce pressure on refugees and make the return process more humane and sustainable.”

Following tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan last month, the situation has become significantly more difficult for hundreds of refugee families in Pakistan.

Mass arrests, home demolitions, and the cutting of basic services like water and electricity in certain areas have raised a serious question:

What will be the outcome of this crisis?

Will the pressure and deportations continue, or will a political and humanitarian solution finally be put in place to end the suffering?