Afghanistan has seen the return of more than 6.8 million refugees since the Taliban returned to power according to the country’s interim Minister for Refugees and interim Deputy Prime Minister, Maulvi Abdul Kabir.
He said refugees have returned from neighboring and other countries through both voluntary and forced repatriation. Moreover, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir added that during the same period, 1.3 million citizens have been internally displaced due to natural disasters.
Regime Plans Long-Term Strategy for Returning Afghan Refugees
Maulvi Abdul Kabir shared these details while addressing a joint meeting on finalizing a national plan for the permanent and sustainable management of the refugee issue.
Furthermore, representatives from several ministries, government institutions and relevant departments attended the meeting.
He said the large-scale return of refugees is a serious humanitarian, economic and administrative challenge that requires a coordinated strategy and interdepartmental cooperation.
The minister stressed that providing housing, employment, healthcare, education and basic services to returning refugees is a top priority for the government.
He explained that officials are preparing a comprehensive framework to ensure proper planning and support for the returning population.
Need for support for Afghan Refugees, resources and clear responsibilities
According to Maulvi Abdul Kabir the new plan will not be limited to emergency measures.
Instead, it aims to ensure dignified resettlement, economic integration and social rehabilitation of Afghan returnees.
He noted that it is impossible to manage this challenge without clear responsibility sharing among ministries and effective use of available resources.
Officials attending the meeting agreed that the impact of refugee returns is visible not only in urban centers but also in rural areas.
They said development projects, job creation and improvements in local infrastructure are necessary to manage the pressure on communities.
The interim Minister for Refugees also called on international organizations and humanitarian agencies to continue supporting Afghanistan so that the return and resettlement process remains sustainable and respectful of human dignity.
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