UN experts urge Pakistan to halt forced deportation of vulnerable Afghans

United Nations experts are calling on the Pakistani government to halt the forced deportation of Afghan citizens, particularly those at risk of persecution, torture, or other serious human rights violations. UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett and other experts emphasized the need for a transparent and accessible mechanism to individually assess vulnerable individuals before any expulsion occurs.

The experts expressed specific concern regarding the decision by Pakistani medical and dental councils to deport Afghan students. This move is expected to impact at least 100 students, including 20 to 40 women. Given the Taliban’s restrictions on higher education for women in Afghanistan, these students face the loss of their professional careers if returned.

According to UN data, approximately 127,344 Afghans entered Afghanistan from Pakistan between July 10 and August 27, with at least 14,186 of those being forcibly expelled. Of the total returnees, roughly 38,388 are women and children. The UN warned that Pakistan must adhere to the principle of ‘non-refoulement,’ ensuring no one is returned to a country where they face real risks of arbitrary detention, disappearance, or inhumane treatment.