Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – As the clock ticks toward Pakistan’s March 31 deadline for undocumented Afghans to leave the country, humanitarian agencies are warning of an escalating crisis in Afghanistan that could push already fragile communities beyond the breaking point.
The Pakistani government’s directive, which mandates the departure of all Afghans lacking valid visas, could affect up to one million people—many of whom have lived in Pakistan for decades. Since September 2023, nearly 850,000 Afghans have already returned from Pakistan, according to the UN, further straining Afghanistan’s limited resources. Significant numbers have also returned from Iran.
In response to the growing emergency, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has released 750,000 Swiss Francs from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund to support the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) in meeting the immediate needs of 50,000 returnees. These include emergency shelter, food, water, and medical care—services critically needed in a country grappling with widespread malnutrition, economic collapse, and millions of internally displaced people.
“People returning are facing numerous challenges that they cannot navigate alone,” said Mawlawi Sheikh Shahabuddin Delawar, Acting President of ARCS. “Women and children represent a significant portion of those returning, and ensuring their safety and well-being must be our top priority. Our goal is to provide not only immediate relief but also long-term support so people can rebuild their lives with dignity.”
Many of those returning have been forced to leave behind homes, jobs, and personal belongings. Families have been separated during their journeys, and children—many already malnourished—require urgent nutritional and medical care. The reintegration of returnees into Afghan communities, where services are already overstretched, presents an enormous challenge.
Ahmed Suliman, interim Head of Delegation for the IFRC in Afghanistan, warned of the far-reaching consequences: “This dynamic situation will impact millions of people. Addressing immediate needs—such as food, healthcare, and shelter—is our top priority, while also planning for long-term support. The IFRC and National Societies are committed to standing with the Afghan Red Crescent Society to ensure aid reaches those most in need.”
Current conditions in Afghanistan are widely considered unsuitable for mass returns. The country is still reeling from years of conflict, economic collapse, and successive natural disasters. Aid agencies warn that humanitarian assistance remains woefully underfunded.
The IFRC has reiterated its call for all returns to be voluntary, safe, and dignified—and is urging the international community to step up its support.
“This is not just a regional crisis. It is a humanitarian imperative that demands global solidarity and urgent action,” said Suliman.
