Pakistan refugees and immigrants under threat
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Islamabad, [07/10/2023] – The Pakistan government has made the decision to evict all illegal immigrants, including approximately 1.7 million Afghan refugees, from the country by October 31, citing alignment with international norms. While the move has stirred controversy and faced criticism from organizations like UNHCR, Amnesty International, and the Taliban government in Kabul, Pakistan maintains its stance.
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Upholding International Practices
Pakistan’s decision to move forward with its plan to evict illegal immigrants has stirred debate and international attention. Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani emphasized that Pakistan’s actions were consistent with global practices, stating, “No country allows illegal people to live in their country, whether it is Europe, whether it is countries in Asia, in our neighborhood. So, accordingly, this is in line with the international practice that we have taken this decision.”
Jilani made these remarks in an interview with Hong Kong’s Phoenix TV while attending a forum in Tibet. He further explained that the decision stemmed from Pakistan’s discussions with Afghanistan regarding the migrant issue, which had been ongoing for a significant period. Jilani also called upon international humanitarian agencies to contribute to the process.
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Mixed Reactions and Concerns
Despite Pakistan’s stance, the eviction plan has drawn criticism from various quarters. Organizations such as UNHCR and Amnesty International have called on the government to reconsider its plans. Additionally, the Taliban government in Kabul has expressed reservations about the move.
Jilani acknowledged the historical context, saying, “Whenever there was any problem, people would immigrate to Pakistan, take refuge in Pakistan.” However, he pointed out that more than 40 years had passed since that time, and the situation in Afghanistan had stabilized.
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Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister’s Warning
In a separate statement, Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi urged all foreign nationals residing illegally in Punjab to depart voluntarily. He emphasized that provincial authorities had collected initial data on foreign residents. Naqvi warned that any foreigner found unlawfully staying in the province would not be allowed to remain and cautioned that a comprehensive crackdown would ensue if they did not leave voluntarily. However, he assured that no one would be mistreated during this process.
The Foreign Office Spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, mentioned that the eviction plan would be implemented in phases, according to Dawn.
As the situation unfolds, it remains a subject of international debate, with concerns about the well-being and future of the affected individuals and families at the forefront.
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The matter continues to evolve, and the international community closely watches the developments and outcomes surrounding Pakistan’s decision to evict Pakistan refugees and illegal immigrants and Afghan refugees. The path forward remains uncertain, with potential implications for both Pakistan and its neighbors. 🗺️🤝🏡
FAQ: Pakistan Refugees and Illegal Immigrants shall be evicted
Q1: What is Pakistan’s plan regarding illegal immigrants, including Afghan refugees?
- Pakistan has decided to evict all illegal immigrants, including approximately 1.7 million Afghan refugees, from the country by October 31.
Q2: Why has Pakistan decided to take this action?
- Pakistani authorities argue that this decision aligns with international practices, asserting that no country allows illegal residents, regardless of their origin.
Q3: What has been the international response to Pakistan’s decision?
- Organizations such as UNHCR and Amnesty International, as well as the Taliban government in Kabul, have criticized Pakistan’s decision and called for a reconsideration of the plan.
Q4: How long have Afghan refugees been in Pakistan, and why the change in policy?
- Afghan refugees have been in Pakistan for over 40 years. The change in policy is attributed to the perceived stabilization of the situation in Afghanistan.
Q5: What measures will be taken regarding illegal immigrants in Punjab, and will they be treated humanely?
- Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called on foreign nationals residing illegally in Punjab to depart voluntarily. He assured that no one would be abused in the process, but a comprehensive crackdown would follow if they do not leave voluntarily.