Highlights
23 undocumented Afghans returned from Pakistan
3,591 undocumented Afghans returned from Iran
9,928 total returns from Pakistan since 1 January 2017
57,173 total returns from Iran since 1 January 2017
65% of returnees from Pakistan (15 individuals) assisted
12% of returnees from Iran (440 individuals) assisted
Situation Overview
IOM is responding to a substantial increase in the return of undocumented Afghans from Pakistan and Iran. Since 1 January 2016, over 759,000 undocumented Afghans have returned due to diverse push factors, including deteriorating protection space in Pakistan. Many of those returning have lived outside of Afghanistan for decades, and will need support from the government and humanitarian actors both on arrival and as they seek to reintegrate into a country already struggling with widespread conflict and displacement.
While returns have declined in line with seasonal trends during winter, previous surges in returns have been unpredictable and an estimated 1 million undocumented Afghans still remain in Pakistan. IOM is prepared to respond to increased needs and is appealing for additional funding to continue its emergency response programming.