Over 55,000 Afghan Migrants Expelled from Pakistan and Returned Home
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced that between January 1 and March 31, 2026, a total of 55,202 Afghan migrants were expelled from Pakistan and returned to Afghanistan. According to the agency’s data, these individuals comprise 13,086 families.
Statistics show that 51% of those expelled were men and 49% were women. Most returnees were relocated within Afghanistan to provinces including Nangarhar (35%), Kabul (25%), Kunar (8%), Logar (7%), and Laghman (6%).
Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported an unprecedented surge in the return of migrants from Iran and Pakistan during the second half of April this year. According to the report, over 127,000 people returned to Afghanistan during this period, marking a twofold increase compared to the same time last year. Among them, 16,819 families were included.
The findings of the IOM indicate that the southern and eastern borders of Afghanistan have faced intense pressure during this time. Returns from Pakistan increased by 117%, and the Torkham border crossing experienced its busiest days, with over 90,000 individuals entering.
This significant rise in migrant returns comes as many returning families confront serious economic challenges, a shortage of shelter, and limited access to basic services. Given the fragile economic condition and widespread restrictions on employment and education—particularly for women—the Taliban administration is expected to develop clear and responsive plans to manage this wave of returns and support vulnerable residents.
