The Refugee Commission warns of a humanitarian catastrophe in Afghanistan, while forcing tens of thousands to return

At the press conference of United Nations agencies in Geneva today, Tuesday, the UNHCR spokesman, Babar Baloch, stressed the need to ensure that the return is voluntary, safe and generous.

He added that “Forcing the Afghans or pressing them to return is not sustainable and may destabilize the region.”.

Balosh explained that the Commission is aware of the many challenges – including economic pressures – facing countries that hosted millions of Afghans for decades. But the Commission was concerned that people who are forced to return to Afghanistan, regardless of their legal status, may face grave protection risk.

He added: “This is especially true for Afghan women and girls who face increasing restrictions on obtaining work, education, freedom of movement in Afghanistan. Among other groups, ethnic and religious minorities, human rights activists, journalists, and others may be at risk when returning.”.

He pointed out that these concerns are exacerbated by the great humanitarian needs within Afghanistan, high unemployment rates, in addition to natural disasters and harsh weather phenomena.

The need for urgent support

The spokesman said that since 2023, more than 3.4 million Afghan returned from Iran and Pakistan, including more than 1.5 million in 2024 alone. In April, more than 251,000 Afghan returned in difficult circumstances from Iran and Pakistan, including more than 96,000 who were deported.

This collective return has led to the ability of many provinces in Afghanistan and has exacerbated the risk of more internal displacement.

Balosh reported that the commission is urgently seeking to obtain $ 71 million for a period of nine months to help the returnees to their homes in difficult circumstances.

He said that this additional funds will allow UNHCR teams to provide basic financial assistance to returning to cover urgent needs, travel, and obtain services, livelihoods, and reintegration activities, with a focus on accessing women and girls.