United Nations human rights experts have issued a strong appeal to Pakistan, urging an immediate halt to the mass deportation of Afghan refugees. The experts expressed grave concerns over the potential human rights violations and the severe impact these deportations could have on vulnerable populations, including women, children, and those fleeing persecution.
Key Takeaways
- UN experts call for an immediate cessation of Afghan refugee deportations from Pakistan.
- Concerns are raised regarding potential human rights violations and the safety of deported individuals.
- The deportations disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including women and children.
- Pakistan’s actions are seen as potentially violating international refugee law.
Urgent Appeal for Halt to Deportations
A group of UN Special Rapporteurs and members of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention have collectively urged Pakistan to suspend its policy of deporting Afghan refugees. The experts highlighted that the current wave of deportations, which began in November, risks violating international human rights and refugee laws. They emphasized the need for Pakistan to uphold its obligations under international conventions, particularly concerning non-refoulement, which prohibits sending refugees back to a country where they face danger.
Human Rights Concerns and Vulnerable Populations
The experts voiced particular concern for the safety and well-being of those being deported, many of whom are women, children, and individuals who have fled conflict and persecution in Afghanistan. Reports suggest that the deportations are often carried out without adequate due process, leading to family separations and the return of individuals to precarious situations. The UN experts stressed that such actions could expose refugees to serious risks, including arbitrary detention, torture, and discrimination.
International Law and Due Process
The appeal underscores the importance of adhering to international legal standards in managing refugee flows. The experts called on Pakistan to ensure that any return of refugees is voluntary, safe, and conducted with full respect for due process and human rights. They also urged the international community to provide greater support to Pakistan in managing the refugee situation and to address the root causes of displacement from Afghanistan.
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