REPATRIATION OF ILLEGAL MIGRANTS – CLARIFYING MISCONCEPTIONS

Haris Khan

21 November 2023

The recent surge of Afghan nationals seeking refuge in Pakistan has ignited a
discourse that demands a nuanced exploration of the distinctions between refugees
and illegal immigrants. It is essential to dispel misconceptions surrounding these terms,
and this article endeavors to unravel the intricacies of the situation, offering a
comprehensive perspective.
To comprehend the crux of the matter, one must acknowledge that refugees are
individuals compelled to flee their homelands due to the ominous specters of persecution,
conflict, or violence. Their quest is rooted in the pursuit of safety and protection,
invoking certain rights and support enshrined in international law. The narrative
surrounding refugees is one of vulnerability and the fundamental human right to seek
asylum, transcending borders in the face of adversity.
Conversely, the discussion also encompasses the realm of illegal immigrants,
denoting those who traverse national boundaries without the requisite authorization or
documentation. In the context of Pakistan’s response to this complex issue regarding the
existence of Afghan citizens in Pakistan, the repatriation of illegal migrants is driven by
considerations of economic strain and concerns about potential involvement of Afghans
in terrorist activities.
The multifaceted nature of this situation necessitates a delicate balance between
humanitarian considerations and the imperative to safeguard national security and
economic stability. As this discourse unfolds, it becomes evident that resolving the
complexities of migration demands a judicious approach, one that navigates the delicate
equilibrium between upholding the rights of refugees and addressing the legitimate
concerns of host nations.
A nation’s decision to not allow any of the illegal migrants engaged in anti-state
activities stems from the need to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and the well-being
of its citizens. Allowing individuals from other countries that are involved in activities that
pose a direct threat to the state destabilizes the very foundations of national stability.
Addressing the point of repatriating those involved in anti-state activities, Pakistan
upholds the principle of self-defense and protects its citizens from potential harm
like every other state that reserves every single right to defend order, sovereignty or
integrity. Additionally, illegal immigrants partaking in anti-state endeavors may contribute
to internal strife, fostering unrest and destabilizing the social fabric.
It is essential to highlight the point of repatriation of illegal Afghan migrants, being
labeled by few pseudo experts as herding 1.7 million individuals is malicious and
mal-intended propaganda. The fact is that approximately 327,000 of illegal migrants
have been sent back to Afghanistan over a span of two months. This signals a wellarticulated process, with an average of around 5,000 people crossing various border
points daily. It is crucial to recognize this measured movement, distinct from a chaotic
process as questioned by few.
The Pakistani government has communicated in advance with the illegal migrants,
providing specific time frames for the voluntary return. Contrary to assertions of expulsion,
the government’s intention is to facilitate the repatriation of illegal Afghan refugees to their
home country in a well-coordinated and humane manner. The emphasis is on ensuring a
dignified and honorable return, steering away from leaving individuals in a state of despair
or uncertainty.
Propaganda based on the unjustifiable accusations positioned towards Pakistan’s
stance on illegal Afghan migrants can be countered properly with the fact that Pakistan
held them with dignity till they were present inside its territory despite they were causing
immense consequences for our nation. Now it is the primary responsibility of the Afghan
authorities to take measures for their safety and livelihood as they are now returning back
to their country, instead of pushing Pakistan being the responsible for their conditions
inside Afghanistan.
There is no doubt in the fact that Afghans are to be returned on the basis of raising
security and economic concerns for Pakistan. It is imperative to acknowledge that
Pakistan had to address its delicate national security concerns and the only possible
solution for such aspects was to return all those Afghans that are creating both traditional
and non-traditional security concerns. The decision to repatriate illegal immigrants from
Pakistan definitely aligns with the obligation to safeguard national interests, not only to
counter the threats of terrorism and extremism in the Pakistani society but also to
repatriate them which will eventually pose positive impacts on our country’s economy and
job markets.
By scrutinizing Dawn’s Editorial Board and Pervez Hoodbhoy’s comparison of
Pakistan’s policies with Zionist Israel, a critical distinction arises. While critics question
the morality of Pakistan’s actions, drawing parallels with the Palestinian situation in Israel
is a flawed comparison. Pakistan’s repatriation of illegal migrants, whom it has hosted for
an extended period, stands in stark contrast to the grave violations of international law
committed by Israel.
The forced expulsion of Palestinians from their ancestral lands represents one of
the most egregious breaches of human rights and international norms. Unlike the
prolonged support that Pakistan has provided to Afghan refugees, Israel’s actions
exemplify a disregard for the principles that underpin a just and humane global order.
Contrary to the claim that Afghan refugees are given only 30 days to sell their properties
acquired over a lifetime, it should be clarified that illegal immigrants are not permitted to
own properties. Some individuals from Afghanistan arrived to Pakistan after August 2021
when Taliban took control over the country after the US led Coalition forces withdrawn
themselves, which granted them with the provision of Permits of Residence (POR) for a
shorter period.
The claims for setting a limit for having a certain or fixed amount of cash while
returning to their country is also a baseless propaganda. There is no official order
imposing such a limit, it is important to clarify that according to the Foreign Exchange
Regulation Act (FERA), permissible limit to take out Pakistani currency is only Rs 10,000
per person. Furthermore, it should be noted that the cross-border movement of cattle is
banned by the order of the Government of Pakistan (GoP). This ban, known as the
negative list, restricts the transportation of cattle across the border.
Moreover, allegations of extortion by Pakistani officials at Pak-Afghan Border are
also false, as there are no potential proofs to justify such acts. Hearsay should not be
mistaken for journalism, and it is essential to rely on verified sources for accurate
reporting. Pakistan’s decision to repatriate illegal immigrants aligns with its national
security concerns and responsibilities. Therefore the journalists, public figures and
political critics (like Pervez Hoodbhoy) should put this in the very consideration to rely on
accurate information and avoid generating misconceptions when discussing issues which
are important matters of national security, prosperity and integrity.