The Complex Reality of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan
The situation for Afghan refugees in Pakistan is becoming increasingly precarious. With over a million Afghan citizens holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, many are feeling the weight of uncertainty, especially with their stay limit having expired recently. This has led to fears of economic losses, as refugees may be forced to sell their assets—built over decades—at distressing prices.
Currently, Pakistan’s authorities are tasked with repatriating all illegal foreign immigrants by November 2023. Despite this, many Afghan refugees, particularly the over one million PoR cardholders, are left in limbo. The government is weighing options of either extending the validity of these cards or offering long-term visas, but no concrete decision has been reached yet.
The conversation around this issue is multifaceted. While some Pakistani officials highlight economic burdens tied to the Afghan presence—such as illegal trade associated with the Afghan Transit Trade Agreement—others emphasize the significant contributions that these refugees make to the local economy. For instance, members of the Dostokhail tribe reportedly possess assets worth around Rs52 billion, along with sending over $51 million in remittances last year. Many of these individuals consider Pakistan their home, with children born there who have no desire to return to a war-torn Afghanistan.
The initiative "Beyond Boundaries," led by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, is working hard to advocate for a resolution that both protects the rights of Afghan refugees and allows them to continue contributing positively to the Pakistani economy. Their aim is to ensure that these refugees are not compelled to liquidate their assets hastily, which would not only harm them but also strip value from the local economy.
Moving forward, streamlining visa processes for Afghan traders and granting them residency could be a beneficial solution for both parties. It would empower Afghan refugees to invest legally in Pakistan while maintaining their connections to their homeland.
Finding a balanced resolution to this complex issue requires thoughtful dialogue and consideration of all perspectives—something that both the Pakistani authorities and Afghan refugees hope to see in the coming days. If you’re interested in learning more about issues surrounding Afghan refugees and potential solutions, feel free to connect with Pro21st; we’re here to facilitate open discussions and explore avenues for positive change.
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