Repatriation
As the deadline for voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees ends today, Pakistan is walking a tightrope. Over the month, or so, it had to face some critical challenges as it navigated its decision through thick and thin. Now the international agencies too are voicing their concern, and are apparently sceptical of treatment being meted out to these faceless aliens, and are calling for restraint. The Foreign Office on Monday was seen doing some plain-talking as it informed the audience that the decision is in compliance with domestic laws, and applicable to international norms and principles. What necessitated this explanation has its roots in the reaction that Islamabad had to face from Kabul, and likewise from aid agencies, as they were not too receptive to it.
The point is that Pakistan had been host to Afghans for more than four decades now, and had done everything possible in its meagre resources. Thus, the decision to shunt out around two million refugees who are now a burden on the economy and political fabric was a wise move, as the situation in the war-torn country is returning to normalcy, and new avenues of geo-economics are opening up for the landlocked state. So there is no forcible return of Afghan nationals, as claimed by donor bodies, and there is no human rights catastrophe in the making. These undocumented Afghans now pose a threat to security as revulsion is widely noticed in the border areas, and non-state actors take refuge amidst such solitary souls. Likewise, Pakistan’s prescription to facilitate refugees with all kinds of travel amenities must be appreciated, as it is a new normal wherever such exodus of men in shadows is experienced.
Pakistan must stick to its decision, and ensure that Afghans are courteously repatriated, and taken care of over their peaceful crossing into their homeland. Now is the time for these refugees too to bid farewell in all compassion, and keep alive the sentiments of cordiality.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 1st, 2023.
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