UNHCR voices concern over Pakistan’s move to repatriate Afghan refugees

ISLAMABAD: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Saturday expressed regret over Pakistan’s decision to repatriate nearly 1.4 million Afghan refugees.

In a notification, the Interior Ministry stated that the validity of the Proof of Registration (PoR) cards expired on June 30, 2025, “thereby rendering the continued stay of such individuals in the country unlawful.”

Afghan community leaders in Pakistan say dozens of PoR card holders have been detained in Islamabad and Rawalpindi in recent days, and several have already been deported.

UN refugee agency confirmed it has received information that the government of Pakistan has decided to launch Phase 3 of the Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan.

“UNHCR expresses deep regret and concern about this turn of events, fully appreciating the many challenges in place for safe and sustainable returns to Afghanistan,” the agency said in a statement.

It added that UNHCR is currently seeking more information about the decision and the planned modalities for its implementation. The agency also said it would continue advocating with the government of Pakistan to ensure safeguards are in place.

According to the Interior Ministry, district administrations, police, prosecution, jail authorities, and other relevant bodies have been authorised to take appropriate measures for the arrest, detention—whether in jails or other suitable premises—and repatriation of all such illegal foreigners.

Pakistan announced a phased repatriation plan for Afghan nationals in 2023.

In October 2023, the caretaker government launched the Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan—a three-phase process aimed at deporting Afghans residing in Pakistan, citing security concerns.

The first phase targeted unregistered Afghan nationals, giving them 30 days to leave the country voluntarily or face deportation. This was followed by the repatriation of Afghan Citizen Card holders.

Sources say the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions had recommended a six-month extension for PoR card holders, but the proposal was rejected.