Islamabad: Pakistan is currently hosting more than 1.4 million refugees and asylum-seekers, as reported in the latest overview by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

According to Relief Web, the report highlights that the majority of these individuals are Afghans who have been residing in Pakistan for decades. The influx initially began with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in the late 1970s and has continued through various phases of conflict in Afghanistan, prompting waves of displacement.

The UNHCR document outlines that Pakistan remains one of the largest host countries for refugees globally. The data shows that many of these refugees live in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, where support systems and community networks have been established over the years. The report also indicates that there is a significant need for continued international assistance to support both the refugees and the host communities.

The overview further explains that while there are ongoing efforts to facilitate voluntary repatriation, the challenging conditions in Afghanistan have slowed these processes. There is also a focus on enhancing education and livelihood opportunities for refugees within Pakistan to help them gain self-reliance.

The report underscores the importance of international cooperation and sustainable solutions to address the complex challenges faced by refugees and asylum-seekers in Pakistan. UNHCR continues to work with the Pakistani government and other partners to improve the living standards and protection of refugees in the country.