UN Launches $529M Program for Returning Afghan Migrants

DID Press: United Nations agencies and humanitarian organizations have launched a new $529 million program aimed at supporting Afghan returnees arriving from Iran and Pakistan amid rising humanitarian and economic pressures.

The plan, announced Tuesday, estimates that around 2.7 million Afghans could return to Afghanistan between April and December 2026. The initiative is designed to provide emergency assistance at border crossings while also supporting long-term reintegration in communities across the country.

According to UN officials, nearly 5.9 million Afghans have returned since September 2023, including 2.9 million in 2025 and around 600,000 during the first four months of 2026.

Tajudeen Oyewale warned that the situation is not merely a short-term border issue but represents “a profound demographic and development challenge” for Afghanistan.

He cautioned that without sufficient funding, the country could face rising poverty, displacement, and social tensions.

Under the program, nearly $100 million has been allocated for emergency aid at border crossings, including food assistance, healthcare, cash support, transportation, and protection services.

Another $428 million will be directed toward housing and reintegration projects in 35 priority districts. These efforts include shelter construction, education, healthcare, clean water access, and job creation initiatives.

UN officials also noted that women and children make up more than half of the returnees, many of whom were born outside Afghanistan and have limited connections to their areas of origin.