The United Nations mission in Kabul has announced the launch of a $529 million response plan to assist approximately 2.7 million Afghan migrants expected to return from Iran and Pakistan by the end of 2026. The plan covers the period from April to December.
The UN has urged the Taliban authorities to provide greater support for the returnees, their families, and the host communities. Additionally, the organization has called on the international community to supply the necessary financial resources to continue humanitarian activities in Afghanistan. This appeal comes at a time when humanitarian needs in the country remain critically high.
Recently, Georgette Gagnon, the acting head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), visited the Islam Qala border crossing in Herat province, a primary entry point for migrants returning from Iran. During her visit, she emphasized the commitment to continue supporting returnees and host communities and spoke with several returning families.
Officials from international organizations state that the needs of migrants are not limited to their first few days back in the country. Upon returning to their home regions, they require shelter, education, health services, and job opportunities, which places additional strain on already limited local resources.
To address these needs, educational and empowerment programs, including English language classes, computer skills, and vocational training, have been made available to some returnees. However, the challenges remain immense. UN staff at Islam Qala report that many returning families face severe economic and social difficulties.
In a concerning development, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) recently announced that its cash assistance for each returnee has been reduced from $375 to $170. This reduction is likely to exacerbate the economic hardships faced by returning families.
Source: Zarin TV
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