Since late 2023, Afghanistan has seen a significant surge in returnees from neighboring countries like Pakistan and Iran. This mass movement is driven by border crackdowns, economic hardship, and natural disasters. Many Afghans are returning without proper documentation, facing tough conditions upon arrival. This raises questions about the causes of this return surge, its impact on Afghanistan, and what is being done to manage the crisis. Below, we explore the key issues surrounding this ongoing migration crisis.
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Why are so many Afghans returning from Pakistan and Iran?
The return of millions of Afghans from Pakistan and Iran is mainly due to border crackdowns launched in late 2023, which expelled migrants without proper documents. Economic hardship, drought, and natural disasters in Afghanistan have also pushed many to leave or return. These factors combined have created a large influx of returnees into Afghanistan, straining its resources.
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What are the humanitarian impacts of the Afghan return surge?
The sudden influx of returnees has placed immense pressure on Afghanistan’s already fragile infrastructure and social services. Many returnees lack civil documentation and live in poverty, often surviving on less than $5 a day. This situation heightens risks of homelessness, health crises, and food insecurity, creating a humanitarian emergency that needs urgent international aid.
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How is Afghanistan coping with the influx of returnees?
Afghanistan is struggling to manage the large number of returnees. The country’s resources are stretched thin, with limited access to healthcare, shelter, and employment. Humanitarian organizations are working to provide aid, but ongoing crises and underfunding hinder effective response. The government faces a tough challenge in integrating returnees and supporting their needs.
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What are the causes of increased border expulsions?
Border expulsions increased in late 2023 due to regional policies aimed at controlling migration flows. Pakistan and Iran launched crackdowns to expel undocumented migrants, citing security and economic concerns. These policies have led to mass deportations, contributing to the surge of returnees into Afghanistan and regional instability.
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What is the international community doing about this crisis?
The international community is aware of the humanitarian crisis caused by the return surge. Organizations like the UNHCR and various NGOs are providing aid and advocating for increased support. However, funding shortages and regional political issues complicate efforts to address the full scope of the crisis effectively.
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Could this migration trend continue in the future?
It’s possible that migration and return patterns will persist if regional border policies and Afghanistan’s internal crises continue. Economic instability, natural disasters, and political challenges remain unresolved, which could lead to ongoing migration pressures and humanitarian needs.