Western countries have been quite cruel to the Afghan people. Not only did they lead to the homeland of the latter during a war that finally went anywhere, but they are also not responsible for the lives that put at risk during the process of trying to “rebuild” Afghanistan.
This, of course, is a reference to the many Afghans who expect their promised repatriation to several Western countries. They have been stranded for years in Pakistan because the states that once promised asylum in recognition of their sacrifices and contributions have taken their sweet time by processing their visa applications.
These refugees face certain risks for their lives and freedoms if they return to Afghanistan: their past work for several governments and western organizations has seen them qualified as “traitors” in their country. These risks have increased considerably in recent times, since Pakistan has adopted a policy of “without concessions” towards Afghan citizens.
It is deeply disappointing that countries responsible for the difficult situation of these refugees have not shown more urgency when addressing their condition. One wonders if there is any concern about the message that sends its complacency. They seem to be telling Afghan people who, regardless of where they stopped during the so -called war against terror, were ultimately expendable for Western nations.
One wonders what Afghans do of their situation: after all, the forces that entered Afghanistan were presented as more “morals”, more “civilized” and more concerned about the “human rights” than the “barbarians” who wanted to defeat. However, once his long campaign failed, only those Afghas who had maintained their distance, or those who put on the side of the “enemy”, were the ones who came out at the top. The rest had to flee for their lives and seek the beneficial organization of other nations.
The countries that promised their support for them must do better. Pakistan has already made it clear that he is no longer a hospitable for Afghan citizens. Although Islamabad must show more flexibility towards refugees who face risks to life and freedom in case of deportation, the other nations responsible for their well -being must also be pressed to intensify and accelerate their repatriation.
The Afghan people cannot be treated as a football that is kicking while the nations argue about visa protocols and policies. They deserve security, stability and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
It is unfair and dangerous that the immediate welfare of the Afghan people has left Pakistan completely to consider, while other nations have been taking years discovering whether or not they will do well who promised security and security. Whatever their concerns, they can be addressed once these refugees are relocated to less hostile locations.
Posted in Dawn, April 12, 2025
