Rising Return of Afghan Refugees from Pakistan Intensifies Humanitarian Pressures in Afghanistan

Event Description

Afghanistan has been witnessing a continued increase in the return of Afghan refugees and migrants from Pakistan following the enforcement of deportation policies targeting undocumented foreigners that began in 2023. Thousands of Afghan families continue to cross the border through major crossings such as Torkham and Spin Boldak, returning to Afghanistan after years of residence in Pakistan. Many returnees arrive with limited financial resources and without stable housing arrangements, making them heavily dependent on humanitarian assistance during the initial phase of their return. The ongoing returns occur amid fragile economic conditions and limited public services in Afghanistan, raising concerns about the country’s capacity to absorb large numbers of returnees in a short period of time. 

Humanitarian Conditions

The return of Afghan refugees is placing additional strain on Afghanistan’s already fragile humanitarian situation. According to international humanitarian estimates, millions of Afghans have returned or been forced to return from neighboring countries since 2023, particularly from Pakistan and Iran. Many returnees face serious challenges in accessing shelter, employment, healthcare, and education services, especially in border provinces where reception capacities remain limited. Children and vulnerable households are particularly affected, as many families struggle to reintegrate into communities that are already experiencing high levels of poverty and unemployment. Humanitarian actors have also warned that the return process risks increasing pressure on basic services and local resources in areas that are already facing humanitarian needs. 

Security Situation

Organizations' Response

United Nations agencies and humanitarian organizations are expanding their assistance programs to support returning Afghan families. These responses include emergency shelter assistance, food aid, temporary cash support, and reintegration services. Humanitarian actors are also implementing livelihood support programs aimed at helping returnees regain economic stability and reduce long-term reliance on humanitarian aid. 

However, humanitarian organizations continue to warn that the scale of needs may exceed current response capacities if return flows continue at the current pace. 

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