Pakistan’s Crackdown on Afghan Migrants: Causes and Impact

In a recent development, Pakistan has initiated a crackdown on undocumented migrants, with a significant impact on Afghan nationals, who constitute the largest group of refugees in the country. This move has raised questions about the timing and motivations behind Pakistan’s decision to force these migrants to leave.

Background Afghan nationals have been seeking refuge in Pakistan for decades, fleeing the ongoing conflicts and instability in their homeland. Pakistan has been a host to millions of Afghan refugees for an extended period. However, the recent crackdown marks a departure from this historical approach.

Reasons for the Crackdown Several key factors contribute to Pakistan’s decision to deport Afghan migrants:

1. Economic Challenges: Pakistan is currently grappling with a severe economic crisis, and the government argues that undocumented migrants, who do not pay taxes, are straining its already limited resources.
2. Security Concerns: Pakistani authorities have accused Afghan migrants of involvement in various criminal activities, including terror attacks, street crimes, and organized crimes like drug trafficking. They claim that some Afghan nationals have been linked to attacks against the government and the army, including suicide bombings.
3. Caretaker Government: The timing of this decision is crucial. Pakistan is presently under a caretaker government, which is responsible for managing affairs until the upcoming general elections in February. This interim government may be less sensitive to potential political or electoral consequences resulting from the expulsion of migrants.
4. UN and Western Appeals: Despite appeals from the United Nations, rights groups, and Western embassies, the Pakistani government has stood firm on its decision to deport the migrants.
5. Challenges in Afghanistan: Those being forced to return to Afghanistan face an uncertain future. Afghanistan is struggling with a collapsed economy, natural disasters, food insecurity, and human rights violations under the Taliban regime. Women and girls who return may face restrictions on education and employment.
6. Historical Context: Many Afghan migrants fled their country during the Soviet war in the 1970s and have established lives in Pakistan, making it challenging for them to return to a home country where they may have limited ties and opportunities. Additionally, the process of obtaining official documents can be arduous.

Taliban’s Response The Taliban, which now controls Afghanistan, has criticized the deportations and requested more time to prepare for the return of these migrants. Authorities in Afghanistan are setting up temporary camps for returnees, where they will be provided with basic necessities. However, the timing is unfavorable, as Afghanistan is dealing with the aftermath of an earthquake and approaching winter, making the returnees particularly vulnerable.

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