UN Warns Afghan Refugee Return Threatens National Reconstruction
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that the mass return of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries is seriously undermining Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts.
According to a recent UNDP report, more than 2.3 million refugees have returned to Afghanistan over the past two years after being forced to leave their host countries. This collective return, compounded by domestic economic crises and natural disasters, has severely strained the country’s rebuilding capacity.
Stephen Rodriguez, the UNDP representative in Afghanistan, stressed that the unprecedented scale of refugee returns amid economic hardship requires comprehensive and large-scale solutions. He stated, “It is clear that we need responses on a significant scale.”
Shoko Noda, head of the UNDP crisis bureau, emphasized the particular challenges faced by returning women, noting that despite restarting their lives, they continue to face serious family and social obstacles. She added that the response should go beyond short-term humanitarian assistance.
Meanwhile, Eric Beaume, head of cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Afghanistan, said that the country’s national development plan is in its final review stages and described the document as a crucial roadmap for future international support.
Japan’s ambassador also reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting the Afghan people, especially returning refugees.
Separately, Tajudeen Oyewale, the UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, voiced concern over the pressure on the country’s education system. He noted a worrying increase in the number of children who have been forced into labor after returning. In some areas, up to 30% of returning children are engaged in arduous work, placing additional strain on educational and social structures.
UN experts warned that without a comprehensive policy and tangible international support, the return of refugees could exacerbate the crisis rather than contribute to reconstruction — particularly as the Taliban administration struggles to manage these challenges, accelerating structural deterioration within the country.
