Pakistan Begins Deportation of 1.7 Million Undocumented Afghan Migrants Amid Human Rights Concerns

Massive humanitarian crisis feared as Pakistan commences deportation of undocumented Afghan migrants, predominantly refugees from the Taliban regime; critics claim the measure could violate international law, as chaotic scenes emerge at border crossings and holding centres.

Pakistan has started the deportation of an estimated 1.7 million unregistered or undocumented Afghan migrants, causing a potential humanitarian crisis, with a lack of shelter and essential services at the border crossing.
Pakistani officials argue that the move is aimed at curbing militant attacks, smuggling and other crimes, however, the United Nations’ human rights office warns of a potential 'human rights catastrophe', including family separation and potential arrest and torture of deportees in Afghanistan.
Initially, about 140,000 Afghans have voluntarily left Pakistan due to fears of arrest and deportation, while the Afghans who are arrested will be sent to 'holding centers' set up across the country.
Afghan nationals who have been deported are not necessarily barred from returning to Pakistan, but they would need to obtain proper visas to come back for educational, business, or any other purposes.
Human Rights Watch has warned that the conditions in Afghanistan are still dangerous for many deportees, putting their lives and well-being at risk, while the move has widespread support among Pakistanis due to the perceived burden on infrastructure caused by the Afghan refugees.