Poll: Return of Migrants – Cultural Opportunity or Educational Challenge?
According to the results of a recent poll conducted by Did News Agency, citizens hold diverse and multi-layered views on the effects of migrants returning to Afghanistan. The data reveals that society harbors both concerns and hopes regarding this significant social phenomenon.
Respondents were asked to share their opinions on “the impact of returning migrants on the general culture of society.” The final results are as follows:
Strengthening tolerance and peaceful coexistence: 37%
Cultural enrichment and transfer of beneficial experiences: 25%
Increased educational challenges for the younger generation: 25%
Cultural divide and differing perspectives: 13%
The largest percentage of participants see the return of migrants as a factor that promotes tolerance, acceptance, and peaceful coexistence among different segments of society. This group believes that migrants, having experienced life in diverse societies and cultures, may bring back values such as tolerance, dialogue, and constructive interaction.
At the same time, 50% of responses highlight two other cultural effects: some view returning migrants as a source of cultural enrichment and positive experiences, while others worry about increased educational challenges for the youth—challenges that may arise from differences in upbringing, lifestyles, and behavioral norms between migrants and the host society.
Only 13% of respondents expressed concern about a potential cultural division and ideological clashes between returnees and the current society—a statistic indicating that fears of cultural polarization are currently less pronounced compared to other aspects.
Key Takeaway: Opportunity or Threat?
The return of migrants, especially when occurring on a large scale alongside social and economic changes, will undoubtedly have varied effects on the cultural, social, and psychological fabric of society.
However, the poll results suggest that public opinion is more focused on the positive aspects and cultural potential of this return rather than on possible threats or divisions.
If policymakers and cultural institutions acknowledge this public sentiment, it could pave the way for effective and inclusive policies to reintegrate returning migrants into society while leveraging their potential for the country’s cultural and social development.