Pakistan Mandates Relocation of Afghan Refugees Amid U.S. Admission Suspension

The imminent relocation order underscores the precarious position of Afghan refugees in Pakistan following recent U.S. policy changes.

Tens of thousands of Afghan refugees currently residing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are facing mandatory relocation across Pakistan by March 31. The decision follows President Trump's recent executive order halting all refugee admissions into the United States, adding a layer of urgency and uncertainty for many Afghans seeking resettlement.

The influx of Afghan refugees to the capital city has been notable due to its proximity to various embassies and humanitarian organizations. The Pakistani government aims to exert pressure on Western nations, particularly the U.S., to expedite the processing of these refugees' applications. However, many refugees fear for their safety, as officials have warned that those unable to secure resettlement may be returned to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

The plight of approximately 15,000 Afghans who have submitted applications for U.S. resettlement is particularly precarious. Voices advocating for these individuals have criticized the U.S. government for what they view as a betrayal of those who supported American efforts in Afghanistan now facing potential persecution.

Organizations such as the UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration have expressed grave concerns for the safety of vulnerable refugee groups, including ethnic and religious minorities, women and girls, as well as human rights advocates. They have called on the Pakistani authorities to approach the relocation with a commitment to upholding human rights standards, to avoid exacerbating the vulnerabilities of these marginalized populations.