Returned Migrants Face Economic Hardship as Islamic Emirate Distributes Land

Afghan migrants deported from Iran and Pakistan are currently facing severe economic challenges in Kabul, characterized by widespread homelessness and acute food insecurity. Many returnees report a total lack of employment opportunities, with some stating that extreme poverty is forcing them to consider re-migrating to neighboring countries as a means of survival.

In response to the needs of these populations, the Islamic Emirate has reported an acceleration in the distribution of residential land. Hamdullah Fitrat, the deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, stated that residential land has been distributed to more than 9,000 families within a single week. Fitrat noted that these distributions have primarily taken place in Nangarhar, Laghman, and Zabul provinces.

While the government focuses on land allocation, migrant activists are urging a strategic shift in how humanitarian aid is delivered. They argue that both the government and international organizations must move beyond providing basic survival assistance, such as food and temporary shelter, and instead focus on creating sustainable, long-term self-sufficiency for returnees. Activists warn that without a transition toward sustainable economic integration and job creation, the region could face a peak crisis by the year 2026.