The recent news of hundreds of Afghans being stuck in Pakistan due to a crackdown on migrants without visas has raised concerns about their safety, well-being, and future. These individuals risked their lives to work with the UK in Afghanistan and fled the Taliban, seeking refuge in Pakistan while waiting for relocation to the UK. However, their wait has been prolonged, leaving them in a state of limbo and uncertainty.
Many of these Afghans have worked for or with the UK in various capacities, including as English teachers, translators for the British army, and participants in British-led projects promoting democracy and equality in Afghanistan. They qualify for the UK government’s resettlement schemes and were asked to come to Pakistan for visa processing. However, the process has been slow, and they have been left in Pakistan for months or even more than a year without legal access to education or work.
Living in fear, these individuals are hesitant to speak up due to potential repercussions for their case or the safety of their families back in Afghanistan, as the Taliban government continues to exert control. Furthermore, their living conditions have become increasingly difficult, with limited access to healthcare and support for pregnant women like Marzia, who shared her concerns about giving birth in her hotel room. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), their point of contact in Pakistan, has denied advising them not to leave their accommodations, raising questions about their safety and access to information.
The UK government has acknowledged its commitment to bringing eligible Afghans to the UK, and new visas have been issued for resettlement. However, due to the lack of visa processing capability in Afghanistan, individuals approved by the resettlement schemes are required to make their own way to a third country, typically Pakistan, for biometric and final checks. But leaving Afghanistan is a challenge in itself, with long waiting lists for passports and lengthy visa processing times for Pakistan.
The prolonged wait and uncertain future have taken a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of these Afghans. Many are living in overcrowded rooms, unable to work legally and provide proper education for their children. Their dreams of a better life and educational opportunities for their families have been put on hold, both in Afghanistan and now in Pakistan.
International organizations, such as the Sulha Alliance, have criticized the slow and ineffective execution of the resettlement schemes. They argue that the UK government’s promises to bring these individuals to safety have remained unfulfilled, leaving them stranded and vulnerable. The fear of being arrested by the police in Pakistan has heightened, as some have reported incidents of police raids on their hotels.
The recent crackdown on illegal migrants by Pakistani authorities has further complicated the situation. While Pakistan denies targeting Afghans specifically, the tensions between the two countries and allegations of Pakistan harboring militant groups have led to increased scrutiny. The fallout from these tensions may disproportionately affect the Afghan refugees, including those awaiting resettlement under the UK government schemes.
In light of these developments, there is an urgent need for the UK government to expedite the visa processing and relocation of these Afghans to the UK. The safety and well-being of these individuals and their families should be a top priority. Adequate support, including access to education, healthcare, and legal assistance, should be provided to alleviate their suffering while they await their new lives in the UK.
Furthermore, international pressure should be exerted on Pakistan to ensure the safety and rights of Afghan refugees within its borders. The allegations of harassment and mistreatment by Pakistani authorities should be thoroughly investigated and addressed to provide a secure environment for these individuals.
Ultimately, the situation faced by these Afghans highlights the need for more efficient and proactive measures to protect and support refugees worldwide. Adequate resources, collaboration between governments, and timely action are necessary to prevent vulnerable individuals from falling through the cracks and enduring protracted periods of uncertainty and suffering.
