Taliban’s Mujahid Urges Pakistan to Uphold Humanitarian Duties, Faces Criticism

Islamabad – Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has called on Pakistan on Saturday (8 Nov) in a video statement to recognize and assist Afghan migrants, urging countries and international organizations to uphold their humanitarian responsibilities. In remarks to the media, Mujahid referenced international commissions and migration laws, stating, “We expect countries and organizations to pay attention to the migrants in Pakistan.”

Officials in Islamabad, however, described his statement as detached from reality. Pakistan has hosted over four million Afghan migrants for more than four decades, providing shelter and safety despite its own economic and social challenges. Generations of Afghan children have attended Pakistani schools and universities, while refugees have been granted access to healthcare, basic services, and the opportunity to work under conditions similar to Pakistani nationals.

Over the years, Pakistan has extended substantial humanitarian support to Afghan refugees while maintaining regional stability. Programs such as the Refugee Affected and Hosting Areas (RAHA) initiative and DAFI scholarships have enabled Afghan children and youth to access education in public schools and universities, fostering social cohesion with host communities. Additionally, Pakistan has established and maintained more than 50 refugee villages across the country, providing essential community-based services including water, sanitation, and shelter supplies.

Mujahid’s appeal has drawn criticism from observers, who point to the Taliban regime’s own restrictive policies. Critics highlight the bans on girls’ education and the protection of terrorist elements, calling the spokesperson’s emphasis on humanitarian responsibility deeply ironic. In Afghanistan, restrictions on freedom have grown harsher. The UNAMA 2024 Media Freedom Report recorded 256 journalists detained arbitrarily, 130 cases of torture, and 75 instances of threats or intimidation, highlighting a systematic effort to suppress independent voices.

The statement has reignited debate over the responsibilities of host countries, the role of the international community, and the broader challenges of managing Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

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