UN Warns Afghan Returnees Face Dire Conditions Amid Rising Numbers
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has warned that thousands of Afghan returnees, coming back after years of displacement, are restarting their lives in extremely difficult conditions with no access to basic amenities.
According to the agency, the lack of adequate shelter is the primary challenge facing these returnees as they attempt to rebuild a life of dignity. UN-Habitat noted that although it is working with partners to provide housing and basic services for some vulnerable families, the current assistance is far from sufficient to meet the growing needs of this population.
Return—whether voluntary or forced—of thousands of Afghans from neighboring countries has surged, leaving many individuals with neither assets nor homes. Deportation campaigns in neighboring countries, particularly in Pakistan and Iran, have further strained returning families.
Meanwhile, the Taliban administration, which bears responsibility for supporting its citizens, has so far failed to effectively respond to the crisis. A lack of resources, absence of coordinated planning, and a greater focus on security over social welfare have left many families living in dire conditions in urban peripheries or inhospitable regions.
