For over four decades, Afghanistan has been caught in a relentless cycle of war, displacement, and instability. The story of Afghan refugees is not just one of suffering and migration, but also of resilience, survival, and the need for sustainable solutions. At the heart of this issue lies a pressing question: What role should Afghanistan now play in resettling its own people—and how does this reflect on its global standing?
A History of Conflict and Migration
Afghanistan’s refugee crisis began in 1979, when the Soviet Union invaded the country. In response to the occupation, millions of Afghan civilians fled for safety. During the early 1980s, nearly 3 million Afghan refugees arrived in Pakistan, seeking protection from war. By the end of that decade, this figure surpassed 3.5 million, making it one of the largest refugee movements in modern history.
In the 1990s, following the Soviet withdrawal, some refugees returned to Afghanistan. However, with the emergence of the Taliban in 1995, another wave of displacement followed. The instability continued into the 2000s; the United States-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) invasion in 2001 again triggered mass migration. Each new regime change or conflict pushed more Afghans across the border into Pakistan and beyond.
Pakistan’s Unmatched Support for Afghan Refugees
Throughout these turbulent decades, Pakistan has been the most consistent and accommodating host for Afghan refugees. Unlike other regional countries, Pakistan kept the Pak-Afghan border open, allowing people to cross without visa restrictions. Refugee camps were established primarily in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and urban centers like Karachi, offering shelter and basic services.
Pakistan’s generosity extended beyond humanitarian aid. Afghan refugees were granted freedom of movement, access to education, and opportunities for business and employment. This unique approach allowed Afghan communities to become self-reliant. Many refugees:
- Started successful small and medium-sized businesses
- Received primary, secondary, and higher education
- Became influential professionals in sectors such as healthcare, academia, and public administration
Today, a significant number of Afghan government officials and civil servants are former refugees who were educated in Pakistani schools, colleges, and universities.
Resettling Afghan Refugees and Rising Tensions
However, the continued presence of a large refugee population has created complex socio-economic challenges for Pakistan. In recent years, due to national security concerns and resource limitations, Pakistan has announced plans for the voluntary and dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees.
Unfortunately, this decision has sparked backlash from some within the refugee community. Despite the decades-long support offered by Pakistan, some refugees have responded with public criticism, often using language that reflects hostility rather than gratitude. This has led to growing frustration among segments of the Pakistani public and policymakers.
It is worth noting that developed nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and members of the European Union routinely enforce strict immigration controls. These countries limit refugee intake based on economic capacity and national interest. Yet, when a developing country like Pakistan seeks to do the same, it often faces international scrutiny and biased criticism.
A Call for Responsibility and Leadership from Afghanistan
The time has come for Afghanistan, particularly the Islamic Emirate, to take full responsibility for its citizens. A nation’s strength lies in its population, and no government can function effectively without the support and participation of its people. The repatriation of Afghan refugees should not be seen as a crisis but as an opportunity for nation-building.
The Afghan government must act swiftly to:
- Rehabilitate returning families through emergency housing and job creation programs
- Strengthen public services such as education, healthcare, and local governance
- Collaborate with international agencies and donor countries to secure funding for reintegration efforts
These efforts will not only support the returnees but also foster national unity, stability, and economic growth.
Resettling Afghan Refugees as a Symbol of Sovereignty and Progress
The successful resettlement of Afghan refugees will send a powerful message to the international community: Afghanistan is ready to rebuild with its people at the center of its vision. These returning citizens represent a skilled, resilient, and capable population—exactly the kind of human capital needed to revive the economy and build a peaceful society.
Moreover, if Afghanistan demonstrates its commitment to the welfare of its people, it will earn respect and support from global partners. Resettlement must be prioritized not only as a humanitarian duty but also as a cornerstone of national development and diplomatic credibility.
Final Thoughts
Afghan refugees have waited decades for stability. Pakistan has carried this responsibility with unmatched generosity. Now, the torch must pass to Afghanistan. Resettling its own people is not just an act of duty—it is a defining test of leadership. If Afghanistan rises to this challenge, it can reclaim not only its citizens but also its rightful place on the world stage.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this op-ed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of this platform.
