The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that more than 86,000 Afghan migrants returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan between March 11 and April 11, 2026.
Kabul 24: This wave of returns, which includes both voluntary repatriations and those under pressure, has created significant humanitarian challenges for the country.Faramarz Barzin, Deputy Spokesperson for UNHCR in Afghanistan, told Tolo News that the majority of these returnees require immediate assistance.
He stated: “Most of these returnees need urgent cash assistance, temporary shelter, and livelihood opportunities.” UNHCR, along with other UN agencies and humanitarian partners, is present at border crossing points, providing a range of services including registration, emergency aid, legal counseling, and initial support to help ease the immediate difficulties faced by the returnees.
However, resources remain limited, and greater international support is urgently needed.Many of these Afghans, after years of living in neighboring countries, are now confronting severe economic hardship, potential homelessness, and a lack of job opportunities upon their return.
Women and children make up a significant portion of the returnees and are particularly vulnerable. UNHCR has warned that large-scale and rapid returns could affect regional stability and place additional strain on Afghanistan’s already limited resources.
At the same time, reports continue of ongoing pressures on Afghan migrants in Pakistan. Some returnees have criticized the Pakistani military for widespread arrests and forced transfers to camps.
They claim these actions, combined with threats of deportation, have made their lives extremely difficult. The migrants are calling on international human rights organizations to advocate for their rights, prevent forced expulsions, and ensure safe and voluntary returns.
This surge in returns comes as Afghanistan continues to grapple with multiple economic, security, and humanitarian crises. Since the beginning of 2026, hundreds of thousands of Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan, with the trend accelerating amid regional tensions.
The United Nations stresses that without sufficient funding, sustainable support for these individuals will be impossible, raising the risk of a deepening humanitarian crisis.Overall, the return of more than 86,000 people in a single month highlights the need for stronger coordination between the Afghan authorities, international organizations, and neighboring countries.
Providing shelter, short-term employment opportunities, and long-term reintegration support for these returnees remains a top priority to prevent further instability.
