2023-10-07 15:13:05
ISLAMABAD (AP) — Forcibly deporting Afghans from Pakistan could lead to serious human rights violations, including the separation of families and the deportation of minors, the UN warned Saturday.
Pakistan recently announced a crackdown on migrants living illegally in the country, including 1.7 million Afghans, and asked them to return to their home countries by October 31 to avoid mass detentions and expulsions.
The government denies targeting Afghans and said it is focusing on people who are in the country illegally, regardless of their nationality. He noted that he is creating a hotline and offering rewards to those who inform authorities about these types of migrants.
UN agencies noted that Afghanistan is experiencing a serious humanitarian crisis, especially for women and girls, who are prohibited by the Taliban from accessing education beyond the sixth grade, most public spaces and many jobs.
“Such plans would have serious implications for all those who have been forced to leave the country and may face serious protection risks upon their return,” he said, referring to Pakistan’s crackdown.
They acknowledged Pakistan’s “sovereign prerogative” over national policies and stated that they are willing to help register and manage Afghan nationals, including those who may need international protection.
The International Organization for Migration and the UN refugee agency called on countries to “suspend forced returns of Afghan citizens and ensure that any possible return to the country occurs in a safe, dignified and voluntary manner.”
Homeowners and property owners in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, have received notices ordering them to evict the “illegal Afghans” and their families before the end of the month or face legal action.
The police have asked clerics at some mosques in the city to inform worshipers of their duty to report Afghans in their neighborhoods.
More than 2,000 people have been detained across the country since the crackdown began earlier this week.
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Abdul Sattar in Balochistan and Adil Jawad Khan in Karachi contributed to this report.
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