Turkey recently deported 325 Afghan migrants, both documented and undocumented, as part of a broader crackdown on Afghan refugees. These deportations, which primarily involved migrants from Istanbul, occurred on November 10. The deportees were returned to Afghanistan, where they were received by officials from the Taliban’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations.
Financial Support for Returnees
Upon arrival in Afghanistan, the returnees were provided with €150 (or its equivalent in Afghan currency) by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help with their reintegration.
Regional Context: Growing Deportations
This deportation is part of an increasing trend of forced expulsions of Afghan migrants across neighboring countries, including Iran and Pakistan. Afghan migrants are facing heightened security concerns and a lack of economic opportunities, compelling many to return to Afghanistan despite deteriorating conditions.
Afghanistan’s Response and Support
Abdur Rahman Rashid, Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister for Refugees and Repatriation, confirmed that the Ministry is in communication with Turkish authorities to address ongoing issues related to Afghan migration. He assured the deported individuals that they would receive legal support and guidance in obtaining civil documentation upon their return to Afghanistan.
Worsening Conditions: Regional Deportations Continue
The deportation trend follows a regional pattern, with Pakistan and Iran also sending large numbers of Afghan refugees back to Afghanistan. In total, an estimated 400,000 Afghan nationals have been expelled from these neighboring countries, with Iran deporting up to 3,000 Afghans daily.
Impact of Winter on Afghanistan’s Fragile Infrastructure
The situation is expected to worsen as winter sets in, placing additional pressure on Afghanistan’s fragile infrastructure. The return of these migrants could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in the country. Since the Taliban’s return to power, Afghanistan has seen an increase in the exodus of its citizens, with Turkey serving as a key transit point for those attempting to reach Europe.
Turkey’s Role in the Refugee Crisis
Currently, Turkey hosts one of the world’s largest refugee populations, including over 3.6 million Syrians and a significant number of Afghans. Turkey’s handling of Afghan refugees has drawn international criticism, particularly from human rights organizations. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised concerns about the forced “voluntary” repatriation of Afghan refugees and reported mistreatment of women and children during deportation procedures.
Challenges for Afghanistan’s Government
For the Afghan government, managing the return of these large numbers of migrants is a significant challenge. Many returnees arrive with limited resources, further burdening the country’s already strained humanitarian infrastructure. The influx of refugees, combined with the approaching winter, is expected to worsen instability in Afghanistan.
Future Plans for Returnees
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation has pledged to support the returnees by providing shelter and assistance with reintegration. However, given the country’s ongoing economic struggles, it remains uncertain whether the government will be able to meet the growing needs of these returnees.
