The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has praised the resilience and dedication of aid workers, international agencies, and humanitarian activists in Afghanistan, while stressing the importance of supporting returnees in the country.
In a message posted on its X account to mark World Humanitarian Day, the organization stated that every day efforts are made to deliver life-saving assistance to refugees who are returning and living in difficult conditions.
The IOM emphasized: “We strive to ensure that in providing assistance, the dignity and value of those in need are respected, and their hope for a safer future is strengthened.”
The organization added that this day serves as an opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to humanity, as well as to the protection of aid workers and people in need during humanitarian crises.
It is worth noting that World Humanitarian Day comes at a time when international organizations and human rights activists have repeatedly warned that without global support and assistance, returnees in Afghanistan will not be able to live with dignity and security.
This comes as the return of migrants from Pakistan surged in April after Pakistani authorities set a deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country. At the same time, a larger wave of returns from Iran began and still continues.
The head of the IOM described the situation at Afghanistan’s borders as critical but also stressed that the pressures on host communities where returnees settle should not be overlooked.
He said: “Many of these areas already lack basic services and economic opportunities. Without investment, returnees will struggle to reintegrate, which often leads to further displacement. Breaking this vicious cycle requires sustained support.”
Currently, one of the most serious problems facing returnees is the lack of shelter. Since the start of the mass return, Afghan cities have faced a shortage of housing, while rental prices have risen sharply.
