Red Cross official seeks staggered return of Afghans from Pakistan

A senior Red Cross official is calling for a revised approach to the return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan to Afghanistan, suggesting a staggered repatriation process to ease the burden on both countries. With hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees already forced to leave Pakistan due to documentation issues, and more expected to follow, the official emphasizes the need for manageable migration flows to ensure adequate support and integration in Afghanistan.

The challenges facing returning Afghan refugees are daunting, with many lacking the resources to rebuild their lives in a country they may not be familiar with. The majority of returnees, including a significant number of children, face poor health conditions and limited access to essential services. The humanitarian effort is primarily focused on assisting returnees upon arrival at transit stations near the border, but the long-term challenges of settlement and livelihood remain a significant concern.

Despite some improvements in security following the Taliban’s takeover, Afghanistan continues to grapple with severe humanitarian and human rights crises. While efforts are being made to address the population’s physical and mental health needs, the outlook for the country remains bleak, particularly regarding women’s rights and economic prospects. Without fundamental changes in policies and increased support, Afghanistan’s path to stability and prosperity remains uncertain.