Over 6 Million Afghans Returned From Pakistan, Iran Since 2023: UNHCR

Afghanistan is grappling with an immense challenge as over six million Afghans have returned from Pakistan and Iran since September 2023, placing significant pressure on the nation's already strained services and communities. Arafat Jamal, UNHCR Representative in Afghanistan, described the situation as critical during a press conference in Kabul, coinciding with the observance of World Refugee Day. He revealed that more than 750,000 Afghans have returned from neighboring countries this year alone, underscoring the scale of the ongoing displacement crisis. Jamal appealed for increased international support to address what he termed one of the world's largest and most protracted displacement situations. The UNHCR representative highlighted the severe funding constraints, stating the agency requires $216.4 million for 2026 but has only secured $56.7 million to date. This substantial funding gap of nearly three-quarters of its requirements puts critical humanitarian programs at risk, especially as needs continue to escalate. Despite these challenges, UNHCR and its partners are committed to supporting returnees from their arrival through reintegration into communities across Afghanistan. Last year, the agency assisted over two million individuals as part of its '50 by 35' initiative, which aims to foster self-reliance and social inclusion to reduce dependence on humanitarian aid. In a new effort to bolster protection and promote durable solutions, UNHCR is launching a legal identity initiative with several UN agencies. This program seeks to provide up to 1.5 million civil documents over three years, enabling returnees and other vulnerable populations to access essential services, education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities by restoring their legal identity.

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Afghanistan was at a critical moment as the observance of World Refugee Day coincides with the continued large-scale return of Afghans from neighboring countries.