Refugees International Urges Pakistan to Halt Expulsions of Afghan Migrants

Refugees International has urged Pakistan to immediately stop the forced deportation of Afghan migrants, expressing severe concern over intensified expulsions that violate the non-refoulement principle under international law.

The organization highlighted that more than 146,000 Afghans have been deported from Pakistan in 2026 so far, following over one million forced returns in 2025. It described the actions as illegal and dangerous, stressing that migrants should not be used as tools of political pressure.

In a statement issued by Priyali Deepthi Sur and Qiamuddin Akram, Refugees International noted that deportations have accelerated since the reopening of the Torkham border crossing on March 31. The repatriation program began in October 2023, according to Ariana News reporting.

The group warned that the expulsions endanger vulnerable populations, including women, journalists and activists. It called on Pakistan to restore legal pathways for Afghans to remain in the country and comply with international obligations protecting refugees from return to places where they face harm.