Over 12,000 Afghan Migrants Expelled from Pakistan in a Single Day
According to the Taliban’s Commission for Refugee Affairs, more than 12,000 Afghan migrants were forcibly deported from Pakistan in a single day on Saturday, November 7. These individuals returned to Afghanistan through the border crossings at Torkham, Spin Boldak, Bahramcha, Silk Bridge, and Islam Qala.
Meanwhile, Iran has also sent 132 Afghan migrants back to the country—some forced and others having returned voluntarily—via official border checkpoints. The surge in deportations comes as many of these migrants had lived across the borders for years and are now being compelled to abandon their lives and possessions.
The continued forced return of migrants is occurring against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s deepening humanitarian crisis, widespread unemployment, and lack of essential services. The infrastructure and support mechanisms necessary to accommodate this vulnerable population remain insufficient.
Despite the urgent need for shelter, healthcare, and employment opportunities for the returnees, the Taliban administration has yet to offer a clear or effective strategy to manage the migration crisis. Human rights observers have expressed concern, viewing these mass deportations as violations of refugee rights.
