Amnesty International has urged Pakistan to stop the ongoing deportation of Afghan refugees, describing the repatriation plan as a violation of international legal norms. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the global rights watchdog termed the process “unlawful” and contrary to the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning refugees to places where they may face harm.
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The letter noted that Pakistan had hosted millions of Afghan nationals for over four decades, providing refuge during periods of conflict and instability in Afghanistan. However, it said the government’s stance shifted after the launch of the ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ in September 2023, which is now reportedly in its final phase.
PAKISTAN: Amnesty International writes to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to express grave concerns regarding unlawful detention, harassment and deportation of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
In an open letter addressed to @CMShehbaz, Amnesty International calls on the Pakistani…
— Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office (@amnestysasia) January 9, 2026
Amnesty International claimed the plan has been marked by opacity and a lack of due process, citing documented cases of arbitrary arrests, detentions and deportations. The organisation argued that the absence of transparency and accountability raises concerns over potential rights violations and humanitarian repercussions.
It further urged Islamabad to expand lawful mechanisms for refugee registration and protection, particularly for vulnerable groups. These include women and girls, journalists, ethnic and religious minorities, and individuals facing barriers linked to disability, language or gender.
The rights group also called for the creation of accessible and well-resourced channels for asylum claims and documentation. Such measures, it said, would align Pakistan with its long-standing humanitarian role and uphold international obligations.
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While Pakistani officials have argued that the policy targets undocumented migrants rather than registered refugees, rights advocates insist the distinction has not been consistently observed in practice. The debate continues as regional dynamics shift and Afghan displacement remains a pressing challenge.