Millions Of Afghans Face Forced Return As Pakistan And Iran Crack Down On Undocumented Migrants

Millions of Afghans Face Forced Return as Pakistan and Iran Crack Down on Undocumented Migrants Millions of Afghans who have fled to neighbouring Pakistan and Iran over several decades are now facing pressure to return to Afghanistan as both countries intensify their crackdown on undocumented migrants. Afghanistan has long been a major source of refugees and migrants in the region, with millions crossing its borders to escape conflict, insecurity and economic hardship. However, Pakistan and Iran have stepped up efforts to remove Afghans without legal residency or documentation, forcing many families to make the difficult journey back to a country still facing significant humanitarian and economic challenges. The large-scale returns have raised concerns among humanitarian organisations about the conditions awaiting those who are being sent back, particularly vulnerable families, women and children. Many returnees are arriving with limited resources and uncertain prospects, adding pressure to Afghanistan’s already strained humanitarian situation. The crackdown by the two neighbouring countries is reshaping the lives of millions of Afghans who have spent years or even decades living outside their homeland.