Archive · 6 Sep 2025
Afghan Refugees Return Amid Earthquake Aftermath and Tensions
Following an earthquake in Afghanistan, many Afghan refugees are being forced to return from Pakistan.
Pakistan says it can't handle the costs and worries about security, claiming some refugees are linked to terrorism.
Since April, many Afghans holding special cards have been told to leave, or they'll be deported.
Tens of thousands have already been sent back.
This is happening while Afghanistan is dealing with the earthquake's aftermath and facing its own internal struggles.
Over 531,700 Afghans returned from Pakistan in 2023.
Pakistan has deported over 102,700 as of September 4.
Pakistan cites security and economic concerns as reasons for the returns.
Since April, over 57,300 Afghans have been arrested/detained in Pakistan.
The number of PoR cardholders among returnees significantly increased in August.
- Who
- Afghan refugees and the Pakistani government.
- What
- The forced return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan.
- When
- Since April 2023, with a peak in August.
- Where
- Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Why
- Pakistan citing security concerns and economic strain.
- Refugees Returned from Pakistan (2023)
- Over 531,700
- Total Returns from Iran/Pakistan (2023)
- Approx. 2.5 million
- Deportations from Pakistan (Sep 4)
- 102,700
- Arrests/Detentions in Pakistan (Since April 1)
- 57,300
- PoR Cardholders among Returnees (August)
- 54%
Sources
Quakes deal fresh blow to poor Afghans deported from Pakistan
'We Are Traumatised': Rain Adds to Misery of Afghan Earthquake Survivors
'Our country, we decide': Pakistan rejects UN call to pause deporting Afghans after massive earthquakes
Rescuers ignore Afghan women buried in rubble after earthquakes – ‘Felt like they were invisible’
Earthquake of 5.0 magnitude hits Afghanistan as death toll in Sunday’s quake continues to climb
US yet to approve any help following Afghanistan earthquake, sources say
Invisible, even in deathly peril; men leave out women in Afghanistan's quake rescue - Telegraph India
Afghanistan earthquake: How women have been left to die because of Taliban enforced Sharia
