Afghan Refugees Under Pressure: Pakistan's Deportation Deadline Looms

Human Rights Watch has reported increased pressure by Pakistani authorities on Afghan refugees to return to Afghanistan, facing persecution and economic hardships. Over 500,000 Afghans without papers live in Pakistan, with many awaiting U.S. resettlement. The March 31 deportation deadline affects those without proper documentation.

A prominent human rights organization has accused Pakistani authorities of intensifying efforts to send Afghan refugees back to Afghanistan, where they face potential persecution and dire economic conditions under Taliban rule.

Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, urged Pakistani officials to halt coercive measures against Afghans and allow them the opportunity to seek protection. She also called for the Taliban to refrain from retaliatory actions against returning Afghans and to reverse oppressive policies against women and girls.

The situation arises as Pakistan sets a March 31 deadline for deporting undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans. This occurs amid allegations from the Afghan Embassy of increasing arrests in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. However, Pakistan dismisses these claims, emphasizing efforts to facilitate Afghan repatriation.

(With inputs from agencies.)