UNHCR Alarmed as Pakistan Plans Mass Return of Afghan Refugees

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed significant concern regarding Pakistan's plan to forcefully repatriate over 1.3 million Afghan refugees holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. The move, part of Pakistan's 'Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan', has sparked fears of international law violations, particularly the principle of non-refoulement.

Pakistan announced that the formal deportation of these refugees would commence on September 1. This decision follows the interior ministry's declaration that PoR cardholders' residence became illegal after their cards expired on June 30. The UNHCR argues that this forced deportation contradicts Pakistan's humanitarian stance towards Afghan refugees.

The UN agency has recorded reports of arrests and detentions of Afghans, including those with PoR cards, across Pakistan. While welcoming a one-month extension for PoR card validity, UNHCR insists on voluntary, safe, and dignified returns, particularly concerning the vulnerable such as women, and calls for legal stays for those with special needs.

(With inputs from agencies.)