The UN refugee agency on Wednesday expressed “profound” concern about escalating risks faced by Afghans seeking to flee to neighbouring countries as thedHigh Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that Afghanistan’s land borders with Pakistan and Iran were opened for Afghans with valid travel documents, while Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have entirely closed
Without a valid passport or visa, many Afghans were trying to leave their country after the Taliban took power in Afghanistan in August, many of them fearing retaliation by Taliban forces.
“The dangers of asylum-seekers being unable to flee Afghanistan are grave, and in some cases life-threatening,’’ the statement said.
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The UN agency said that while the necessary travel permission and documents are required, exceptions must be made for those seeking safety.
Millions of Afghans have lost their main source of income since the Taliban took over, while a large number of others, especially women and girls, are experiencing restrictions on study or work.
“The targeting of religious and ethnic minorities, as well as the intimidation and killing of human rights activists, further highlight the life-threatening risks faced by many Afghans,’’ the statement added.
Currently, the majority of Afghans were crossing into neighbouring countries by seeking the assistance of smugglers.
However, thousands of Afghans have been deported by Iran, Pakistan, and Tajikistan back to the country in crisis, according to the agency.
The UN refugee agency is therefore calling on the authorities of all countries to immediately cease the forced return of Afghans.
