Pakistan PM: Over 2.4 Million Afghans Returned ‘With Dignity’ Since September 2023
Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, on the occasion of World Refugee Day, announced that since September 2023, the phased return of Afghan migrants has begun, and over 2.4 million people have returned to Afghanistan by June 2026. He stated that this process has been carried out in an “organized manner and with dignity.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that ensuring security, preserving human dignity, and providing safe conditions for migrants’ return is a shared responsibility of the international community and requires collective commitment to create a future filled with hope and peace for the displaced.
Referring to the events of 1979, Sharif said that after the outbreak of war and insecurity in Afghanistan, millions of its citizens sought refuge in Pakistan, and Islamabad opened its borders to them despite economic constraints. According to him, Pakistan has been one of the largest refugee-hosting countries globally over the past four decades and has established camps and settlements for migrants.
He added that during this period, several generations of Afghans have lived in Pakistan and benefited from educational, employment, and basic services opportunities. Meanwhile, international organizations have continually emphasized the principles of voluntary, safe, and dignified return.
The Pakistani Prime Minister regarded peace, stability, and economic growth in Afghanistan as essential conditions for sustainable return and successful integration of migrants. He described his country’s cooperation with the International Organization for Migration, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and other international partners as crucial in this important process.
While the return process continues, many observers stress the necessity of providing employment, essential services, and security within Afghanistan; a point that highlights the role of the Taliban administration in creating suitable living conditions for returning residents.
