Islamabad: Roza Otunbayeva, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, has highlighted the urgent need for collective action as Afghanistan witnesses a massive influx of returnees. During her visit to the Islam Qala border crossing with Iran, she observed the daily arrival of tens of thousands of Afghan returnees, emphasizing the immense challenge this poses to a country already struggling with severe humanitarian issues.

According to United Nations, since January, over 1.3 million individuals have been forced to return to Afghanistan, a nation where 70 percent of the population lives in poverty. The situation is particularly dire for women and children, who face significant risks due to limited access to basic services and social protections. The UN has consistently drawn attention to the restrictions on women’s rights under Taliban rule, affecting their education, employment, and freedom of movement.

The influx of returnees coincides with a critical shortfall in funding for humanitarian operations, resulting in difficult choices regarding the provision of food, shelter, and safe passage. Ms. Otunbayeva stressed the urgent need for reintegration support, noting that stabilizing return communities requires immediate investment in livelihood programs and community infrastructure. Without swift action, there is a risk of further destabilization, renewed displacement, and threats to regional stability due to remittance losses and labor market pressures.

Ms. Otunbayeva urged the international community, including donors and regional governments, to support Afghan returnees rather than turning away. She emphasized that the current situation reflects the consequences of unmet global responsibilities and called for coordinated efforts to address these challenges.

The UN in Afghanistan advocates for a comprehensive approach that addresses humanitarian needs while enhancing support in areas of return. Regional dialogue with countries like Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asian states is essential to ensure orderly and voluntary repatriation.

Afghanistan’s future stability depends on shared responsibility, Ms. Otunbayeva warned. Ignoring the crisis could lead to devastating consequences, with lives lost and conflicts reigniting.