Afghan Refugee Situation Report

In the aftermath of prolonged wars and internal conflicts, a significant portion of Afghanistan's 40 million people find themselves as refugees within their own borders, grappling with poverty, food shortages, and a looming jobs crisis. An alarming statistic reveals that 15 million Afghans are uncertain about their next meal, painting a stark picture of the challenges faced by the population.

The Taliban administration, responding to this crisis, has established two major camps at the Torkham and Spin Boldak border points with Pakistan. These camps serve as transit hubs for daily transfers, aiming to repatriate refugees to their respective hometowns and villages across Afghanistan. The United Nations reports that over 330,000 Afghans have left Pakistan since November 1, prompting Pakistan to open three additional border crossings in Balochistan to expedite the expulsion campaign.

However, the process has not been without obstacles. At Torkham camp, thousands of individuals endure extended waiting times, with some families reportedly waiting for nearly two weeks. Officials are engaged in the meticulous task of documenting all refugees and coordinating the transportation needed for their onward journey.

Disturbing testimonies from several refugees highlight encounters with police involving alleged "harassment, bullying, and torture." Furthermore, it is revealed that during border crossings, Pakistani authorities only permit refugees to carry 50,000 rupees ($170), confiscating any excess amount from each family.

To address educational needs, a religious school has been established at Torkham, offering daily classes for children. Additionally, the Afghan government has announced job opportunities in the Vice and Virtue Ministry, albeit exclusively for individuals possessing a degree in religious education, further emphasizing the complex challenges faced by Afghan refugees.

The situation of Afghan migrants deported from Pakistan paints a heartbreaking scene of a humanitarian crisis unfolding. These migrants, who sought refuge in Pakistan due to years of war and insecurity in their home country, are now returning to Afghanistan under extremely challenging conditions. With a focus on food shortages and a job crisis in Afghanistan, these migrants face fundamental challenges. Deportation to these conditions and the experience of security harassment by Pakistani police create an image of an unstable and tumultuous situation that requires international attention and serious solutions to address these humanitarian issues.

_{Source: BBC, ALJAZEERA}