RASC News Agency: Amidst the escalating deportation of Afghanistani refugees from Pakistan, a chorus of three United Nations officials has resonated, fervently urging an immediate cessation of this process. Richard Bennett, the UN special rapporteur on human rights for Afghanistan, alongside Felipe Gonzalez Morales, the special rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, and Reem Al-Salem, the special rapporteur on violence against women and children, joined forces to release a joint statement on Tuesday, October 17. Their impassioned plea implored the Pakistani government to halt the deportation of over one million Afghanistani refugees.
In addition, this compelling statement showcases deep-seated concern for the welfare and security of Afghanistani asylum seekers in Pakistan, as they find themselves exposed to the perils of arrest, exploitation, and inhumane treatment. The officials duly acknowledge that a large number of these refugees sought solace in Pakistan due to the abysmal state of human rights and the prevailing humanitarian crisis within Afghanistan, while also yearning for preservation of their own lives.
Notwithstanding the mounting concerns raised by the United Nations and various human rights organizations, Pakistani officials have remained unflinching in their resolve to proceed with the deportations. Even the country’s military has expressed steadfast support for this decision, citing rising terrorist attacks against Pakistani forces subsequent to the influx of Afghanistani immigrants.
It is of paramount importance, however, to recognize that deporting Afghanistani refugees who sought refuge in Pakistan out of sheer fear of the Taliban exposes them to grave threats emanating from this very group. Under these circumstances, the United Nations officials unequivocally implore the Pakistani government to revisit its decision and accord the utmost priority to the safety and well-being of all refugees within its borders.
