THE criticism from Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman for the Taliban Government in Kabul, regarding Pakistan’s decision to expel undocumented Afghan nationals is not only unwarranted but also reveals a distressing lack of perspective on the part of Afghan authorities.
For decades, Pakistan has been a generous host to millions of Afghan refugees fleeing conflict and instability in their homeland. This humanitarian gesture has come at a significant economic, social and security cost to Pakistan, with limited international assistance to manage the refugee influx. The burden has strained Pakistan’s resources and infrastructure, and yet, it has continued to provide shelter to Afghan refugees for years. Since January 2023, Pakistan has experienced twenty four suicide attacks within its borders, with evidence pointing to the involvement of Afghan nationals in some of these heinous acts. The fact that six attackers in an attack on a check-post in Qila Saifullah and three attackers on Zhob Cant were Afghan nationals is deeply troubling. Such incidents raise legitimate concerns about the security risks posed by a significant number of undocumented Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan. It is essential for Kabul to recognize that Pakistan’s decision to deport undocumented Afghan nationals stems from valid concerns about national security and the need to protect its citizens. Pakistan’s historical generosity should not be taken for granted, and instead of criticizing its policies, Afghan officials should engage in meaningful discussions to address shared challenges. Also, Pakistan’s decision to address the issue of undocumented Afghan nationals is not an isolated action. It is a fundamental principle of international law that no country allows illegal immigrants to freely reside on its soil. Nations have the sovereign right and responsibility to regulate their borders and immigration policies to ensure the security and wellbeing of their citizens. Pakistan’s approach in this regard is consistent with international norms and should not be viewed as an exception but as a responsible exercise of its sovereign rights. It is for the world community to shun the policy of disengagement with Afghanistan and rather work with it to address the security and economic problems it is facing. It is time for major capitals to do more to address the problems of Afghan people.
