Pakistan's Afghan Repatriation Order: 165,000 Nationals Depart Amid International Concerns
In a significant development, approximately 165,000 Afghan nationals left Pakistan on November 1, 2023, in response to the Pakistani government's Repatriation Order. This directive required all illegal foreigners to exit the country or face expulsion. The mass exodus has not only stirred concerns but also garnered criticism from various quarters, including the United Nations, Afghan refugees, and human rights organizations.
Background: Pakistan's Role as a Host to Afghan Refugees
Pakistan has been a sanctuary for around 4 million Afghan refugees for several decades, and the recent implementation of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP) has shifted the landscape. The IFRP primarily targets individuals who have overstayed their visas or lack valid documents for their continued stay in Pakistan.
It's important to note that the policy explicitly excludes individuals with refugee status, assuring their continued presence and protection in Pakistan. The decision to expel illegal foreigners stems from security concerns, particularly following a series of terrorist attacks involving Afghan nationals on Pakistani soil.
International Concerns: UN's Stand and Criticism
The sudden enforcement of the policy has raised alarm bells, leading to concerns about the forced deportation of Afghan refugees. The United Nations, along with various humanitarian organizations, has voiced its apprehension and urged Pakistan to provide additional time for Afghan refugees to make necessary arrangements.
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