Islamabad | July 20, 2025 — In a significant move to address the long-standing issue of Afghan refugees, the Pakistani government has announced four key decisions aimed at facilitating a smooth, dignified, and voluntary repatriation process. These developments reflect Pakistan’s commitment to resolving the refugee matter in a humane and respectful manner, while also upholding international standards of refugee repatriation.
Government Finalizes Four Major Decisions for Repatriation
On Monday, high-level officials in Islamabad convened to discuss the future of Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan. As a result of this crucial meeting, the government made four pivotal decisions. First and foremost, authorities confirmed that all Afghan refugees would be repatriated with full respect and dignity. The government emphasized that the repatriation process would remain voluntary, with no use of force.
Secondly, officials established a specialized committee responsible for overseeing the logistics of the return process. This committee will ensure that Afghan refugees can carry their personal belongings, household items, and other essentials back to Afghanistan without any hindrance.
In addition, the government made another favorable decision: allowing Afghan refugees to legally sell their properties in Pakistan. This move will empower many families to generate financial resources before returning to their homeland, thereby easing their transition back into Afghan society.
Lastly, in a step toward diplomatic engagement, the Pakistani government extended an official invitation to Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister to visit Islamabad. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral coordination and cooperation for the successful and peaceful return of Afghan refugees.
Refugee Welfare and Dignity Take Center Stage
Importantly, the government reiterated its commitment to treating Afghan refugees with the utmost respect throughout this process. Officials stressed that this initiative would not resemble a forced expulsion but rather a voluntary return, carried out in phases. This approach ensures that the repatriation process aligns with humanitarian principles and reflects Pakistan’s historic hospitality toward Afghan refugees over the past four decades.
Moreover, authorities highlighted the importance of community coordination. The Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON), in collaboration with local and international humanitarian organizations, will monitor the execution of all repatriation measures. These organizations will assist in verifying belongings, resolving documentation issues, and protecting refugee rights at every stage.
In addition to administrative support, local governments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and other provinces hosting Afghan refugees have been directed to provide timely assistance. Officials will issue clear instructions to police and district management to avoid any harassment or unfair treatment during the transition.
Bilateral Cooperation with Afghanistan Strengthens
To ensure transparency and goodwill between the two neighboring countries, Pakistan has emphasized the importance of direct engagement with Afghan authorities. By inviting the Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Afghanistan to Islamabad, the government aims to address cross-border issues that may impact the return of Afghan refugees.
This diplomatic visit is expected to lead to mutual understanding and pave the way for enhanced border management, security coordination, and support systems inside Afghanistan for returning families. Additionally, the discussion will likely include long-term development plans to reintegrate the refugees into Afghan society and rebuild essential services such as housing, healthcare, and education.
Furthermore, the Pakistani government has reiterated its openness to international partnerships. Donor agencies, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and other stakeholders have been urged to participate actively in the repatriation process. Their assistance will play a vital role in ensuring that Afghan refugees are reintegrated successfully and sustainably.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pakistan has taken bold and structured steps to facilitate the respectful repatriation of Afghan refugees. With a specialized committee in place, the right to carry belongings secured, the freedom to sell property granted, and diplomatic outreach underway, the government has set a clear and humane roadmap. As the repatriation process unfolds, cooperation between Islamabad and Kabul backed by the international community will be essential to ensuring that Afghan refugees can return home with dignity, safety, and hope for a better future.
