UN-Based Afghanistan Representative Opposes Forced Returns of Refugees

DID Press: Nasir Ahmad Andisha, Afghanistan’s representative to the United Nations in Geneva, has warned that conditions for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of Afghan refugees do not currently exist, cautioning that forced deportations could expose vulnerable groups to serious risks.

Speaking at a session of the United Nations Human Rights Council and during discussions with the Special Rapporteur on Migration, Andisha expressed concern over shrinking legal migration pathways and restrictions affecting Afghans seeking protection abroad.

He said Afghans remain among the world’s largest populations in need of resettlement, while several protection and relocation programs established for vulnerable groups have been suspended or scaled back, leaving thousands stranded in uncertain conditions in third countries.

Andisha also warned that some European countries are entering what he described as “questionable arrangements” with the Taliban that could facilitate the forced return of Afghan asylum seekers, increasing the risk of chain deportations.

According to him, women, girls, former government employees, and ex-security personnel would face particularly severe consequences if returned to Afghanistan under current conditions.

His remarks came as representatives from 15 European Union member states met a Taliban delegation in Brussels on Tuesday, with Afghan migration issues reportedly among the key topics discussed.

Meanwhile, Hannah Neumann criticized the visit as a “ridiculous spectacle,” arguing that the Taliban’s objective extends beyond technical discussions and includes seeking broader international legitimacy.

Andisha concluded by urging UN member states to acknowledge that conditions for safe and voluntary returns do not exist and to refrain from any measures that could lead to the forced deportation of Afghan refugees.