Islamabad: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called on Pakistan to carefully consider the profiles of undocumented Afghan nationals before proceeding with deportations. The agency emphasized that many Afghans face heightened risks of persecution, violence, or displacement if returned without proper assessment.
UNHCR officials highlighted the importance of evaluating individual circumstances, including vulnerability, family status, and previous exposure to conflict, to ensure that repatriation is safe and in accordance with international protection standards. The agency also urged Pakistan to coordinate closely with Afghan authorities and provide support mechanisms, such as temporary shelter and access to essential services, for those being returned.
Human rights advocates welcomed the UNHCR’s guidance, noting that proper profiling is crucial to prevent humanitarian crises and protect refugees from harm. Authorities in Pakistan have indicated that they are reviewing procedures to ensure that deportations are conducted responsibly and with due consideration for at-risk individuals.
The call underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing immigration enforcement with the protection of human rights in the region.
