The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urged Afghan refugees in Pakistan to refrain from participating in the country’s political activities.
In a statement, the organization called on Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan to respect the host country’s laws and regulations and avoid any political activity that could have a direct and negative impact on public perceptions of Afghans in Pakistan.
Part of the statement reads: “Reminder that refugees are required to respect the laws and regulations of the host country, Pakistan, including measures taken for the maintenance of public order.”
“As guests in the host country, refugees should avoid interfering in political affairs. Respecting Pakistan’s laws and domestic policies not only prevents financial problems but also helps maintain friendly relations between the refugees and the host community,” said Ali Reza Karimi, a migrant rights activist.
Pakistan has recently witnessed protests by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. One of the protesters’ main demands is the release of Imran Khan from prison.
Meanwhile, some Afghan refugees in Pakistan have claimed that they have been victims of Pakistan’s policies, despite never interfering in the country’s political matters.
Similarly, some migrant rights activists stress that Afghan refugees in other countries should respect the host country’s laws, emphasizing that political interference by Afghans in Pakistan’s political issues will not be beneficial.
“Refugees should strive to act according to citizenship and immigration laws in different countries and adhere to cultural norms where applicable,” said Asifa Stanekzai, a migrant rights activist.
Furthermore, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate also urged Afghan refugees in Pakistan to avoid involvement in the country’s political processes.
Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said: “We have repeatedly asked our refugees not to interfere in the political affairs of the host country or any other country and to consider the laws of the countries where they reside. This is necessary and essential.”
Over the past two years, the deportation of Afghan refugees from certain countries, particularly neighboring countries, has intensified, and occasional reports of mistreatment of Afghan refugees in these countries have surfaced.