The Question of Afghan Refugees

The government of Pakistan has extended the stay of Afghan refugees by another six months. There are criticisms of the decision from two opposite sides. One side, which appears to be more popular and also voiced by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, opposes any extension while the other opinion is critical why just six months or even any period at all.

The question of how long can refugees stay is a fundamental one. The question in Pakistan has become more pronounced because of the deteriorating Pak-Afghan relations as well as Pakistan not being party to any international instrument on refugees in addition to having no clear domestic legislation on them. Afghan refugees have been dealt with administratively in line with agreements with the United Nations High Commission on Refugees.

Pakistan’s policy towards refugees has been influenced by political and security considerations. Probably, the most important factor for not becoming a party to any international legal instrument and not legislating on them is a result of the government’s policy to keep its hands free.

This brief addresses the diplomatic cost of this policy as well as international and domestic legal obligations despite no clear specific legal instruments. The practicality and politics of refugee repatriation is also discussed. The need for a clear policy and legislation with Pakistan’s interests and international obligation is argued for. 

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