Managing refugees responsibly

Over the years, Pakistan has hosted millions of refugees, primarily from Afghanistan, due to decades of conflict in the region. Managing this influx presents numerous challenges, especially concerning security implications.

Pakistan faces the dual task of providing humanitarian support to refugees while ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. At present, the country shelters approximately 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees, with about 1.5 million additional unregistered refugees living within its borders.

Pakistan has faced several significant waves of refugees throughout its history, primarily due to conflicts and instability in neighboring Afghanistan. The initial influx took place after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which led to the first major wave of Afghan refugees into Pakistan. Millions fled the war-torn country, seeking refuge across the border. The second was in the 1992-2001 era, with the collapse of the Soviet-backed government in Afghanistan led to a prolonged civil war among various factions. This period saw a second wave of Afghan refugees seeking safety in Pakistan.

Similarly, the rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan in the late 1990s further exacerbated the refugee crisis, as many Afghans fled the harsh and oppressive rule. However, the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 initially led to a decrease in refugee flows, as some Afghans hoped for a return to stability. But instability in subsequent years resulted in another wave of refugees. Similarly, the Taliban’s resurgence and the withdrawal of US forces in 2021 have led to a renewed increase in Afghan refugees seeking safety in Pakistan.

In Pakistan, security implications due to the presence of Afghan refugees have been a significant concern. The arrival of refugees has complicated the security landscape. There have been concerns that some individuals among the refugee population might be linked to extremist groups or could become radicalised. This concern is heightened in regions that are already vulnerable to violence and terrorism.

Similarly, the challenge of not integrating refugees into society can lead to isolation, making some individuals more susceptible to radicalisation. Overall, these dynamics create a complex security environment that poses significant challenges for both the refugees and the host communities in Pakistan.

Moreover, the influx of refugees can strain local resources and infrastructure, leading to heightened competition for jobs, housing, and basic services. This competition may foster resentment among host communities, further destabilising the situation.

However, Pakistan has taken steps to manage this complex situation. The government has implemented various policies aimed at integrating refugees into society. For example, the issuance of refugee cards to Afghan refugees allows them to access services legally. This initiative not only helps refugees but also enables authorities to monitor their activities more effectively. By formalising the status of refugees, Pakistan can better track and manage their presence within the country, thereby enhancing security.

Moreover, Pakistan has collaborated with international organisations to address the challenges posed by the refugee crisis. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has played a vital role in providing assistance to both refugees and host communities. Through various programmes, they help improve living conditions, access to education, and healthcare services. Such support is essential, as it alleviates some of the pressures on local resources and fosters a more stable environment.

Similarly, managing the refugee crisis requires a multifaceted approach that considers the needs of all stakeholders. For Pakistan, balancing security and humanitarian responsibilities is an ongoing challenge. While the government has made significant strides in addressing these issues, continued support from the international community is essential. The complexity of the situation demands cooperation and collaboration at all levels.

Pakistan’s long-standing role as a host for Afghan refugees underscores the intricate balance between humanitarian responsibilities and national security concerns. Waves of refugees due to conflicts in Afghanistan have shaped the current landscape, but the resurgence of instability, particularly following the Afghan Taliban’s return to power, has renewed pressures on Pakistan’s already strained capacities.

The path forward depends on collaborative strategies that foster coexistence, resilience, and understanding among all stakeholders.

The writer is a researcher at the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore. She can be reached at: info@casslhr.com