In a powerful appeal, a coalition of human rights organisations and refugee advocates implores Pakistan to cease the expulsion of Afghan migrants, a practice they assert breaches both international law and Pakistan’s own refugee commitments. This pressing call came through an open letter highlighting that many migrants are escapees of persecution and violence, including human rights defenders and victims of gender-based violence.
The letter denounces the alarming occurrences of mass arrests, forced displacements, and crippling visa fees enforced on Afghan refugees. As a March 31 deadline looms for voluntary departure from Pakistan to various countries, the atmosphere is thick with anxiety for the thousands facing imminent deportation, a fate many fear could sever their communities.
Concerns were raised regarding the treatment of Afghan nationals within Pakistan’s law enforcement framework, where reports indicate police detaining human rights advocates, including minors, often without family guidance. Vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and the elderly, are highlighted as particularly at risk of being forcibly removed from the country.
The coalition further emphasised that even Afghan individuals possessing valid visas and residency permits are not shielded from arbitrary deportation, raising serious international law concerns. Moreover, the letter sheds light on the severe risks Afghan women and girls face in detention centres, wherein gender-based violence allegations are rife, compounding their already precarious situation.
Conclusively, the letter urges Pakistan and the global community to affirm the rights of Afghan refugees, eschewing punishment or forced expulsions. It advocates for enhanced legal protections for Afghan women and girls while demanding the strict adherence to international refugee laws to avert further deportation mishaps. The organisations firmly insist that Pakistan immediately end forced expulsions and honour its humanitarian and legal obligations.
A coalition of rights organisations urges Pakistan to stop forced deportations of Afghan migrants, highlighting violations of international law and Pakistan’s own refugee policies. An open letter reveals the risks faced by human rights defenders, political activists, and vulnerable individuals like women and children amidst distressing legal and humanitarian issues. The urgent plea calls for an end to expulsion practices and the safeguarding of Afghan refugees’ rights.
The urgent plea highlights persecution faced by Afghan migrants in Pakistan, including threats of forced deportation that intrude upon their human rights. Various vulnerable groups, especially women and children, are at serious risk. The letter calls for immediate action from Pakistan and the international community to safeguard Afghan refugees and respect legal commitments regarding their protection. Ensuring these protections is essential to uphold humanitarian values and international law.
Original Source: amu.tv
