Faiz Ahmed
The migration of Afghan refugees into Pakistan has been one of the world’s most significant and prolonged refugee crises. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, millions of Afghans have sought refuge in Pakistan, driven by conflict, political instability, and economic hardships. This situation has left a profound mark on both Afghanistan and Pakistan, shaping their political, social, and economic landscapes. The issue extends beyond mere humanitarian concerns, presenting a multifaceted challenge that requires a deep understanding of the broader regional dynamics.
Historical context of afghan migration to Pakistan
The influx of Afghan refugees to Pakistan is closely tied to Afghanistan’s internal conflicts and Pakistan’s geopolitical strategy. The first significant wave of refugees arrived in 1979 after the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan, sparking a decade-long war. This war displaced millions of Afghans, many of whom fled to Pakistan and Iran. After the fall of the Soviet-backed Afghan government in 1992 and the subsequent rise of the Taliban in the mid-1990s, additional waves of refugees crossed into Pakistan. Pakistan’s porous border with Afghanistan, coupled with cultural ties between Pashtun communities on both sides, made it a natural destination for displaced Afghans. Over the decades, millions have sought shelter in Pakistan, with the number fluctuating according to the conflict phases in Afghanistan.
Following the fall of the US-backed Afghan government in 2021 and the Taliban’s return to power, concerns about another surge in refugee numbers emerged. As of 2021, Pakistan hosts over 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees, with about 1.7 million estimated to be unregistered. This long-standing refugee situation is not only a humanitarian challenge but also a significant factor impacting Pakistan’s security, economy, and social structure. To grasp the complexity of the Afghan refugee issue, it’s essential to explore it through various theoretical lenses.
Forced migration theory
The Afghan refugee crisis is best understood through Forced Migration Theory, which suggests that refugees are compelled to flee their countries due to circumstances beyond their control such as war, persecution, or natural disasters. For Afghan refugees, decades of continuous conflict, including foreign invasions, civil wars, and insurgencies, have rendered Afghanistan unstable, forcing millions to seek refuge in Pakistan. While Forced Migration Theory explains the causes of migration, it also highlights the difficulties refugees encounter in host countries. Afghan refugees in Pakistan face several challenges. Although Pakistan is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, which guarantees certain rights to refugees, it has been still hosting millions of Afghans for decades.
However, Pakistan’s approach toward Afghan refugees has evolved over time. During the Soviet-Afghan war, Pakistan welcomed Afghan refugees, viewing them as allies against Soviet aggression. However, after the rise of militancy, especially post-9/11, Afghan refugees have increasingly been viewed through a security lens, leading to comparatively more restrictive policies.
Conflict theory
Conflict Theory, originating from the work of Karl Marx, offers another perspective on the Afghan refugee crisis in Pakistan. It suggests that societal conflicts often arise from the unequal distribution of power and resources. The influx of Afghan refugees has heightened competition for scarce resources such as land, jobs, and healthcare, particularly in areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Most of them are living primarily in informal settlements and often working in low-wage sectors. This has somehow sparked social tensions, with locals at times blaming refugees for unemployment, reduced wages, and economic strain. These economic concerns are further exacerbated by the political implications of hosting such a large refugee population. Politically, Afghan refugees have often been linked to rising militancy and insecurity, especially after the 2001 US invasion of Afghanistan. The porous Afghan-Pakistani border has facilitated the movement of militants, heightening Pakistan’s security concerns. As a result, Pakistan had to impose stricter regulations on Afghan refugees, further marginalizing them within society.
Conflict Theory also sheds light on the power imbalances between host countries and refugees. Afghan refugees, as a vulnerable population, lack bargaining power and face obstacles in accessing basic services or asserting their rights. Pakistan’s periodic repatriation campaigns and registration requirements underscore the power dynamics at play.
Social integration theory
Social Integration Theory examines how refugees are incorporated into the host country’s social, economic, and political fabric. For Afghan refugees in Pakistan, the degree of integration has varied, influenced by factors such as cultural similarities and legal barriers. Cultural and linguistic ties, particularly among Pashtun communities, have fostered a degree of integration in border regions. Many Afghan refugees have established livelihoods, businesses, and strong community networks. However, broader social integration remains limited due to legal constraints and social stigmatization.
Pakistan’s refugee policies, driven largely by security concerns, have hindered Afghan refugees’ integration. The absence of a legal framework that would allow refugees formal employment, access to education, and freedom of movement has curtailed their ability to fully participate in society. Furthermore, the stigma attached to Afghan refugees, often associated with crime and militancy, has further hindered their throughout acceptance.
Realist perspective: geopolitical and economic considerations
The Realist perspective, focused on state interests, national security, and power, sees the Afghan refugee crisis as posing significant economic and security challenges for Pakistan. The arrival of millions of refugees has placed considerable strain on Pakistan’s public services, including healthcare, education, and housing. This has stretched the country’s already limited resources, diverting attention away from its own development needs. Afghan refugees, particularly those working in low-wage sectors, have increased competition for jobs, driving down wages and exacerbating unemployment in certain regions. These economic pressures have fueled tensions between refugees and local populations. Moreover, Afghan refugees have been linked to security concerns, including militancy, drug smuggling, and arms trafficking. The porous Afghan-Pakistani border has allowed militants to cross easily, prompting Pakistan to invest heavily in security, further adding to the financial burden of hosting refugees.
Liberal perspective: humanitarianism and international cooperation
The Liberal perspective, in contrast, emphasizes humanitarian obligations, human rights, and international cooperation. From this viewpoint, the Afghan refugee crisis is not just an economic burden but a humanitarian challenge that requires empathy and global assistance. Liberal theorists argue that Pakistan has a moral responsibility to protect Afghan refugees and provide them with essential services, such as healthcare, education, and shelter. Afghan refugees, as victims of conflict, are entitled to protection under international law.
Addressing the crisis requires multilateral efforts. International organizations like the UNHCR have provided aid to Pakistan, but liberals advocate for increased global support to help Pakistan manage the refugee influx. They also point out that Afghan refugees, despite posing challenges, contribute to the informal economy in sectors such as agriculture, trade, and construction, and could play a positive role in Pakistan’s economic growth if given the opportunity.
Synthesis of realist and liberal perspectives
Both Realist and Liberal perspectives offer valuable insights into Pakistan’s management of Afghan refugees. From the Realist standpoint, the security and economic challenges are undeniable. Pakistan’s refugee policies are shaped by its geopolitical concerns, particularly its relationships with Afghanistan and the United States.
However, the Liberal perspective emphasizes the importance of humanitarian obligations and the potential positive contributions of refugees to the economy. It also stresses the need for international cooperation to mitigate the impact of the refugee crisis on Pakistan.
Conclusion
The Afghan refugee crisis in Pakistan is a complex and multifaceted issue, shaped by decades of conflict, geopolitical interests, and humanitarian needs. Theories such as Forced Migration, Conflict, and Social Integration provide crucial insights into the experiences of Afghan refugees, while Realist and Liberal perspectives highlight the competing priorities Pakistan faces in managing this ongoing challenge. Effectively addressing the Afghan refugee situation requires a balanced approachone that considers both humanitarian responsibilities and national security concerns, while promoting policies that benefit both refugees and host communities.
The author is a freelance researcher and a student at the department of International Relations, University of Karachi.
