Afghanistan is experiencing mounting pressure as large-scale returns from Pakistan and Iran continue, according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Nearly one million Afghans have returned from Pakistan over the past 18 months, with 145,000 arriving in April 2025 alone—eight times the February figure. In total, over 251,000 Afghans returned from Pakistan and Iran in April, including more than 96,000 persons deported by both hosting countries.
The reasons why Afghans return to their home country are multiple, but it is unlikely to be out of free choice. Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan was resumed in late 2023, citing rising security concerns, economic strain, and political pressure, resulting in the deportation of nearly 30,000 Afghans in April alone.
The pressures are also indirect: many Afghans in Pakistan lack legal documentation or refugee status, which, by policy, restricts their access to public services like education and healthcare. Additionally, the rising cost of living in host countries makes it unsustainable for even legal Afghan families—many with disrupted livelihoods—to remain. The UNHCR also cites growing resentment from local populations toward Afghans.
Since 2023, more than 3.4 million Afghans have returned or been deported, placing severe strain on Afghanistan’s healthcare, food supply, and essential services. Many returnees face overcrowded shelters and limited access to clean water, education, and employment. Daily border crossings are estimated at 4,000 to 6,000. Afghanistan’s infrastructure remains fragile due to economic instability, natural disasters, and limited public services.