Historical Context of Afghan Refugees in Balochistan
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has hosted Afghan refugees for over four decades, beginning with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. This initial influx of refugees primarily included Pashtuns who sought refuge in culturally compatible regions like Quetta and Chaman. Subsequent waves of displacement occurred due to the civil war in Afghanistan during the 1990s and the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. Over time, refugee camps expanded and transformed into semi-permanent settlements, adding to the demographic complexity of Balochistan.
Demographic and Social Impact
The continuous arrival of Afghan refugees, particularly in urban centers like Quetta, has placed significant pressure on Balochistan’s infrastructure. The influx has led to overcrowding and strained resources such as water, healthcare, and education. The presence of Afghan Pashtuns in an already ethnically diverse province has sometimes exacerbated tensions, particularly in Baloch majority areas.
While cultural integration has occurred to some extent, with refugees contributing to the local economy, fears of eroding local identities have persisted. Refugee communities often maintain distinct social structures, which complicates their full integration into Balochistan’s society.
Legal Status and Documentation Challenges
Afghan refugees in Pakistan generally fall into two categories: those with Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, issued post-2002, and those with Afghan Citizen Cards (ACCs), introduced in 2017. Despite these documentation efforts, many refugees remain undocumented or struggle to renew their legal status. The uncertainty surrounding their legal position has led to frequent harassment and extortion by law enforcement. Moreover, even documented refugees face challenges accessing basic services due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Citizenship remains out of reach for Afghan refugees, leaving them in a state of legal limbo. This lack of formal status impedes their integration into Pakistani society and limits their participation in the formal economy.
Security Concerns and the National Action Plan (NAP)
The presence of Afghan refugees has been tied to security concerns in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan. The rise of terrorism, including attacks linked to the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has led to heightened scrutiny of refugee communities. The Pakistani government, through its National Action Plan (NAP), has increased border controls and surveillance, which has resulted in frequent police raids on refugee settlements.
In recent months, the government has intensified its repatriation efforts, particularly in response to the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. These moves are part of broader security measures to address cross-border militancy and criminal activity.
Economic Contributions and Vulnerabilities
Despite their legal and social challenges, Afghan refugees have become an integral part of Balochistan’s economy. They are involved in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and small-scale trade, often filling labor shortages in these industries. However, their undocumented status makes them vulnerable to exploitation, with little recourse to legal protections. The competition for low-wage jobs has occasionally fueled tensions with local workers, adding another layer of complexity to the refugee situation.
Recent Government Actions on Afghan Refugees
In 2024, the Balochistan government, in line with national policy, launched the second phase of its repatriation plan for Afghan refugees. This phase targets Afghan nationals holding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACCs), following the earlier expulsion of undocumented refugees. The government has made it clear that individuals without proper documentation will not be allowed to stay in Pakistan.
These actions are part of broader security concerns, as Afghan nationals have been linked to increased crime and militancy, particularly in Balochistan. The government has pointed to the involvement of Afghan-based militants, such as the TTP, in attacks across the country, further justifying its repatriation drive.
Pakistan has also sought the involvement of international organizations like the United Nations to facilitate the repatriation and rehabilitation of Afghan refugees. However, the process has been slow, with many refugees still awaiting relocation to third countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Integration vs. Repatriation: An Ongoing Debate
The debate over whether Afghan refugees should be integrated into Pakistani society or repatriated to Afghanistan remains unresolved. On the one hand, many refugees have lived in Pakistan for decades, making it their home. On the other hand, the Pakistani government has prioritized repatriation, particularly due to security concerns and the potential impact on Balochistan’s ethnic balance.
The international community continues to play a role in this complex issue, providing humanitarian assistance and advocating for the rights of refugees. However, the future of Afghan refugees in Balochistan remains uncertain, with ongoing political instability in Afghanistan complicating efforts for a lasting solution.
Conclusion
The Afghan refugee issue in Balochistan is a multifaceted challenge that intertwines humanitarian concerns with security, economic, and political dimensions. The province has shouldered the burden of hosting refugees for over four decades, and while international support has been crucial, the path forward is fraught with challenges. As Pakistan navigates its security priorities, the fate of millions of Afghan refugees hangs in the balance, requiring continued attention from both national and international stakeholders.
Written by Rukhsar Baloch an independent freelance journalist.
