🌍 5.4 Million Return to Afghanistan Amid Regional Crackdowns

A total of 5.4 million people have returned to Afghanistan since October 2023**, primarily from neighboring countries, according to UNHCR representative Arafat Jamal, speaking from Kabul at a U.N. briefing in Geneva.

“This is massive,” Jamal said, warning that the speed and scale of returns have pushed Afghanistan nearly to the brink.

📊 Record-Breaking Returns in 2024

According to UNHCR data, 2.9 million people returned in 2024 alone, marking the largest number of returns to any single country in one year.

The surge follows immigration crackdowns launched in October 2023 by Pakistan and Iran, targeting undocumented migrants. Millions — including individuals born and raised abroad — have since crossed back into Afghanistan.

Returnees now account for roughly 12% of Afghanistan’s total population, placing enormous strain on housing, employment, healthcare, and humanitarian aid systems.

⚠️ Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Afghanistan is already grappling with a dire humanitarian crisis, including widespread poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services.

The country’s Taliban authorities have publicly criticized the expulsions from neighboring states. At the same time, severe restrictions on women and girls continue to draw international condemnation and complicate relief efforts.

Aid agencies warn that without sustained international support, the country’s fragile infrastructure may struggle to absorb the continued influx of returnees.

🔎 Regional & Global Implications

The mass return movement highlights broader regional migration pressures and the challenges facing countries hosting large refugee populations.

As neighboring states tighten immigration enforcement, humanitarian organizations are urging coordinated international action to stabilize Afghanistan and prevent further displacement crises.

📌 Stay updated as the U.N. and regional governments respond to the escalating humanitarian situation.