UNHCR, IOM urge Pakistan to maintain protection space for Afghans in need of safety

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and IOM, the UN Migration Agency, on Saturday appealed to Pakistan to continue its protection of all vulnerable Afghans who have sought safety in the country.

The appeal comes after Pakistan announced plans to repatriate undocumented Afghan refugees back to Afghanistan.

“Afghanistan is going through a severe humanitarian crisis with several human rights challenges, particularly for women and girls. Such plans would have serious implications for all who have been forced to leave the country and may face serious protection risks upon return,” UNHCR and IOM said in a joint statement.

They acknowledged the Government’s sovereign prerogative over domestic policies, its need to manage populations on its territory, and its obligations to ensure public safety and security.

“UNHCR and IOM have a longstanding and strong collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and stand ready to provide support in developing a comprehensive and sustainable mechanism to register and manage Afghan nationals, including those who may be in need of international protection,” the statement said.

UNHCR and IOM called on all countries to suspend forcible returns of Afghan nationals and ensure any possible returns to the country take place in a safe, dignified and voluntary manner.