Congo Relocation Not a Solution, Risks Forced Return to Afghanistan, AfghanEvac Says

Advocates warn proposed relocation from Qatar to Congo could endanger refugees and lead to forced return to Afghanistan amid humanitarian crisis.

Shawn VanDiver warned that a reported plan to relocate Afghan refugees from Qatar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo could put them at risk and potentially lead to forced return to Afghanistan.

He said around 1,100 Afghans, including more than 400 children, remain in uncertain conditions at a camp in Qatar, facing delays, visa cancellations, and growing psychological pressure.

In response, advocacy group AfghanEvac held a virtual briefing with U.S. lawmakers, where nearly 60 camp residents directly described hardship, prolonged uncertainty, and fears about relocation.

Participants included former U.S. military interpreters and families who said they face health challenges, trauma, and pressure to accept transfer to Congo despite security concerns.

VanDiver said Congo itself faces serious security and humanitarian challenges and lacks the infrastructure needed to safely host vulnerable refugees. He added many of those affected had already been approved for U.S. resettlement, with delays driven by political, not legal obstacles.

U.S. lawmakers, including Richard Blumenthal and Peter Welch, were urged to take a clear position and press the administration to reconsider the proposal.

The situation highlights a broader crisis for Afghan refugees stranded in third countries since the 2021 political change, with many still awaiting relocation or permanent status.

Afghanistan itself is facing a deep humanitarian crisis, with widespread poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity, making any forced return especially dangerous for vulnerable groups, including former U.S. allies.

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