Over 6 Million Afghans Return from Iran and Pakistan in Nearly Three Years

The International Organization for Migration has stated that more than 6.04 million Afghans returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan between the third decade of Sonbola 1402 and 9 Jawza 1405. This period covers nearly three years.

The large number of returns has led to significant challenges regarding the re-socialization of returnees and the long-term resilience of communities in Afghanistan. Host communities also face strains on their capacity to accommodate the newcomers.

Returnees along with experts and officials have emphasized the need for coordinated efforts by aid organizations and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Key areas requiring attention include employment opportunities, access to education, housing solutions, and overall humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, there is a strong recommendation directed at the countries hosting Afghan populations to cease any practices involving the forced return of individuals against their will.