UNICEF: Two-Thirds of migrants deported from Pakistan are children

UNICEF reports that two-thirds of the 600,000 Afghan migrants deported from Pakistan are children, many separated from families.

Tajudeen Oyewale, the head of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Afghanistan, reported that since September 2024, 600,000 migrants have entered Afghanistan from Pakistan. Approximately two-thirds of these migrants are children, highlighting the significant impact on young populations displaced by the ongoing migration crisis.

In his statement on April 21, Oyewale shared that 782 of these children were separated from their families upon arrival. With the assistance of UNICEF, these children have now been reunited with their families, underscoring the organization’s role in supporting displaced families during their return.

Oyewale further mentioned that he recently returned from the Torkham border region, where he met with several children who had been forcibly expelled from Pakistan. His visit highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan migrants, particularly children, who are separated from their families during the deportation process.

The forced expulsion of Afghan migrants from Pakistan has escalated in recent months, with both governments increasing their border control measures. This situation has intensified humanitarian concerns, especially for the children caught in the middle of this crisis.

According to UNICEF, the ongoing refugee crisis has led to serious child protection challenges, as many children are left without proper documentation or legal support. The organization’s efforts to reunite families and provide assistance to vulnerable children are crucial in mitigating the impact of the crisis.

The ongoing displacement of Afghan migrants, especially children, continues to create severe challenges for humanitarian organizations like UNICEF. As the forced expulsion process intensifies, it is essential that international support for Afghan migrants increases to protect the rights and well-being of the most vulnerable, particularly children.

The situation at the border remains tense, and further efforts will be required to ensure that displaced families are properly supported. UNICEF’s ongoing work in reunifying families and providing vital services is vital in addressing the immediate needs of these migrants.

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