Amnesty International Urges Pakistan to Halt Mass Afghan Refugee Deportations

Amnesty International is calling on the Government of Pakistan to immediately cease the ongoing detentions, deportations, and widespread harassment of Afghan refugees. The human rights organization expressed concern that thousands of Afghan refugees are being used as political pawns, facing potential return to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan where they may be at risk amidst a severe crackdown on human rights and an ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Livia Saccardi, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Campaigns for South Asia, emphasized the violation of international legal obligations, including the principle of non-refoulement. Saccardi warned that the forced deportations deny at-risk Afghans, especially women and girls, access to safety, education, and livelihood.

The Pakistani government enforced an ultimatum on “unregistered foreign nationals,” resulting in more than 170,000 Afghans, many residing in Pakistan for decades, leaving the country since September 17. Following the November 1 deadline, police shifted from registering cases under the Foreigners Act, 1946 to direct detentions at deportation centers.

Amnesty International raised concerns about the lack of transparency, due process, and accountability in recent detentions and deportations, exacerbated by increased incidents of harassment against Afghan refugees. The government established 49 detention centers across Pakistan, operating outside the legal system and lacking specified laws. In at least seven centers, detainees have no legal rights, violating the right to liberty and a fair trial.

Instances of harassment and hostility against Afghan refugees have escalated, with reports of businesses being searched, individuals detained without proper legal procedures, and warnings issued against providing accommodation to Afghan refugees without documentation.

The organization highlighted the plight of Afghan journalists in Pakistan, estimating approximately 200 at risk. Many, fearing Taliban persecution, face challenges due to expired visas and heightened risks if forced to return.

Amnesty International urged Pakistan to fulfill its obligations under international human rights law, calling for an immediate halt to deportations and expedited registration of refugees, particularly women, girls, journalists, and those from minority and ethnic communities facing heightened risks.

The crisis has left Afghan refugees in a state of constant anxiety, with reports of demolitions of informal settlements and increased threats against religious minorities, compounding the urgency for intervention and protection.