Iran Urges Prioritizing Assistance for Afghan Refugees in Talks with UN Official
During an official meeting between Iranian officials and a United Nations representative, Tehran called for greater attention to the dire situation of Afghan refugees. Seyed Mohammad Bathaei, Deputy Interior Minister of Iran, met with Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, on the sidelines of the Executive Committee meeting of the UNHCR.
In the discussion, Bathaei emphasized that alarming shortcomings in the international community’s support for refugee-hosting countries have increasingly endangered the status of Afghan refugees. He pointed out the declining credibility and effectiveness of international institutions in refugee assistance and urged the UNHCR to continue treating the situation of Afghan nationals as a humanitarian priority.
During the meeting, Filippo Grandi praised the Islamic Republic of Iran for its actions and services toward Afghan migrants. However, activists and human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized that the engagement of international institutions with the plight of Afghan refugees should not be limited to acknowledging host countries, but must be accompanied by tangible support programs.
The two sides agreed to expand coordination in managing the process of repatriating Afghan nationals to their country. This comes despite the Taliban administration’s claims, as it has not provided the necessary humanitarian, economic, and security conditions for a dignified and voluntary return of refugees.
Given ongoing political repression, the erosion of women’s and minority rights, and economic hardship in Taliban-controlled areas, forced repatriation without adequate conditions could be tantamount to exposing refugees to danger and homelessness.
