Pakistan commences a new program to return Afghans to their native country
Since the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, the region has seen a significant shift in dynamics, particularly in the relationship between Afghanistan and its neighbour, Pakistan. This article explores the impact of Pakistan's repatriation initiative, launched in 2023, on Afghanistan and the strained relations between the two countries.
A Massive Repatriation Effort
In an attempt to address domestic challenges, Pakistan launched a major repatriation initiative in November 2023. This initiative targeted undocumented Afghan nationals and those holding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACCs), leading to the deportation of over 900,000 Afghans by mid-2025 as part of its "Illegal Foreigners' Repatriation Plan" (IFRP).
The campaign had multiple phases, with the first focusing on undocumented Afghans and the second extending deportations to include ACC holders. By March 31, 2025, the government aimed to deport all Afghans deemed to be residing illegally in the country.
Reasons for the Repatriation
The reasons for this repatriation effort are multifaceted. Security concerns, economic burden, and migration regulation all played a role. Pakistan linked recent suicide bombings and other crimes to illegal Afghan migrants or militants crossing from Afghanistan. Economically, the government cited the financial costs of hosting undocumented migrants as unsustainable, given the country's high inflation and IMF bailout program. Finally, the government sought to enforce legal status and control over foreign populations residing in the country.
Impact on Afghanistan
The repatriation initiative has had a significant impact on Afghanistan. By mid-2025, approximately 907,000 Afghans had been deported "in a dignified manner," including both undocumented individuals and ACC holders. However, this mass return has strained Afghanistan's overstretched services and resources, complicating reintegration.
Many Afghan refugees with expired Proof of Registration (PoR) cards face economic losses as they may be forced to sell assets quickly if not granted extensions or new visas. The UNHCR and other aid agencies express concern about the risks faced by returnees, including protection issues, lack of resources, and potential onward displacement back to Pakistan or Iran.
Ongoing Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations
Despite the strained relations caused by the deportations, dialogue continues between the two countries. The Taliban government in Kabul has described Pakistan’s security issues as internal matters and pushed back against blaming Afghans for militant activities.
Pakistan is reportedly considering new visa policies and extensions of refugee status documents (PoR cards) for some Afghans to manage the humanitarian and economic consequences domestically. However, relations remain complex and fraught with security, political, and economic tensions.
A Continuing Saga
In summary, Pakistan’s 2023 repatriation initiative aims to address multiple domestic challenges but has resulted in significant forced returns, complicating Afghanistan’s humanitarian situation and testing bilateral relations. As the situation evolves, it is crucial to monitor the impact of these repatriations on both countries and to consider the humanitarian implications for the returning Afghan population.
[1] The Express Tribune. (2023, November 15). Over 900,000 Afghans deported in Pakistan's repatriation campaign. Retrieved from https://tribune.com.pk/story/2349149/over-900000-afghans-deported-in-pakistans-repatriation-campaign
[2] Al Jazeera. (2023, November 16). Pakistan deports thousands of Afghans in crackdown. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/16/pakistan-deports-thousands-of-afghans-in-crackdown
[3] UNHCR. (2025, March 31). UNHCR concerned about returnees in Afghanistan. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/news/latest/2025/3/63e652064/unhcr-concerned-returnees-afghanistan.html
[4] The Diplomat. (2025, April 1). Pakistan's Repatriation of Afghans: A Humanitarian Crisis in the Making. Retrieved from https://thediplomat.com/2025/04/pakistans-repatriation-of-afghans-a-humanitarian-crisis-in-the-making/
- The mass repatriation of Afghans by Pakistan in 2023, under its "Illegal Foreigners' Repatriation Plan" (IFRP), coincides with an escalation in war-and-conflicts, politics, and general news within the region, particularly the strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- The impact of Pakistan's repatriation initiative on Afghanistan's community and employment policies has been severe, with over 900,000 Afghans deported, straining the country's overstretched services and resources, and complicating the reintegration process for many returnees.
