Islamabad: The UN Refugee Agency and the UN Migration Agency have released data on the arrest, detention, and deportation of Afghan nationals as Pakistan implements its “Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan.” The plan, enacted by the Ministry of Interior, targets Proof of Registration holders, Afghan Citizen Card holders, and undocumented Afghan nationals, with a focus on those returning to Afghanistan through key border crossings.
According to The UN Refugee Agency, the rate of arrest, detention, deportation, and returns has dropped significantly since reaching a peak in late 2023. Despite this decrease, the Pakistani government continues to enforce the repatriation plan. Additionally, the government announced an extension of the validity of the PoR card, now valid until June 30, 2025.