Winter Crisis Looms for Afghan Returnees: UN Warns of Life-Threatening Conditions and Urgent Shelter Needs

 With winter approaching, the United Nations refugee agency has issued a warning that Afghans returning from Pakistan could face life-threatening conditions if they do not receive adequate shelter. Since October, nearly half a million Afghans have been forced to leave Pakistan due to the government's crackdown on illegal immigrants. The majority of these individuals are from Afghanistan, and their return is putting immense pressure on Afghanistan and aid organizations, who are struggling to provide essential services such as healthcare. The freezing temperatures and dire conditions at the border further exacerbate the situation.

The UN refugee agency highlights the vulnerability of many Afghan returnees, particularly women and children, who may not survive the harsh winter without proper shelter. These individuals arrive at the border exhausted and require urgent assistance, including psychosocial support. Families expressed concerns about the colder winter temperatures, especially in mountainous regions, which may delay their return to their homes. The arduous journey and cold weather have resulted in illness among the returnees, particularly bronchitis, as they lack adequate clothing and protection from the elements.

The agency also notes that some returning families have never lived in Afghanistan, having resided in Pakistan for multiple generations. These individuals lack homes and extended family to return to, necessitating cash for rent or repairs. While some families can rely on existing social networks by staying with relatives or friends, others may have no choice but to stay in camps near the border. To address these challenges, the UN refugee agency plans to provide tents to households in need. In light of the situation, a Taliban committee claims to be distributing essential items such as food, water, SIM cards, clothing, and cash at key border crossings.

However, the extreme temperatures and limited access to clean water and sanitation have led to an increase in infectious diseases and malnutrition. Afghan women and girls face additional challenges, as Taliban restrictions restrict their mobility and access to information and services, particularly if they lack a male relative. The UN Women organization has expressed concerns about the potential impact on these women and girls, as they have already faced distressing experiences in Pakistan, including illegal detention, witnessing the arrest of family members, and being separated from relatives during their return to Afghanistan.

The crackdown on Afghan refugees by the Pakistani government has been met with condemnation from rights groups, the Taliban, aid agencies, and the United Nations. The dire winter conditions and overcrowded border facilities further heighten the urgency for immediate and adequate assistance to protect vulnerable Afghan returnees from winter-related hardships and ensure their safety and well-being.