Key points:
• Pakistan reports 1.5 million Afghan nationals repatriated since start of 2023 drive
• Repatriation continues under the government’s “illegal foreign nationals” policy
• Authorities cite voluntary and assisted departures through official border points
• UN agencies urge Pakistan to ensure humanitarian safeguards
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan announced on Sunday that more than 1.5 million Afghan nationals have returned to Afghanistan since the government launched its repatriation drive in late 2023, targeting undocumented foreign residents.
Officials said the ongoing campaign, led by the Interior Ministry, aims to regulate the stay of foreign nationals and address long-standing security and administrative concerns. The majority of those departing have crossed through official border points at Torkham and Chaman, with authorities describing the process as largely orderly and facilitated.
The repatriation initiative, which began after Islamabad decided to expel undocumented foreigners, particularly Afghans without valid papers, has entered its second phase this year. Government representatives said the policy is intended to uphold immigration law while maintaining coordination with humanitarian partners to assist vulnerable groups.
United Nations agencies and international rights organisations have called on Pakistan to ensure that returns remain safe, dignified, and voluntary. They have also urged continued humanitarian access for those in need of protection.
Officials in Islamabad maintain that the government’s stance is not directed against any specific community but aims to bring migration into line with national regulations. They reaffirmed that registered refugees and legal residents are not affected by the campaign.
