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UNHCR Says About 2 Million Afghans Remain in Pakistan as Repatriations Continue

Fresh UNHCR data underscores the scale of Pakistan’s repatriation plan, with operations strained yet ongoing.

Overview

  • More than one million Afghans returned in 2025, bringing total returns since the 2023 plan’s launch to over 1.82 million, UNHCR reports.
  • In November, 171,055 people went back to Afghanistan, including 37,899 deported via the Chaman, Torkham and Barabcha crossings.
  • The third phase targeting Proof of Registration card holders began in September and has recorded nearly 166,000 returns, including over 31,500 processed through UNHCR centers in November.
  • Border tensions in November disrupted cross-border movement and led UN agencies to temporarily relocate from the Chaman area.
  • Authorities have de-notified 54 Afghan refugee villages as UNHCR maintains essential services and presses for university student exemptions, which are being applied on an ad hoc basis.