UN-Habitat Urges Solutions for Afghan Migrant Returns

DID Press: UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has warned that the sharp increase in migrant returns to Afghanistan since 2023 has placed significant pressure on host communities across the country.

The UN agency said sustainable reintegration of returnees requires evidence-based programs, accurate data and practical solutions to address growing social and economic challenges.

According to UN-Habitat, Afghanistan continues to witness the return of hundreds of thousands of migrants. The agency said around 2.8 million people returned to Afghanistan in 2025, while an estimated two million more are expected to return in 2026.

UN-Habitat noted that the rising number of returnees has intensified pressure on urban areas, suburbs and rural communities where they are settling.

The organization emphasized that addressing the situation requires urgent, scalable and community-based approaches to support the long-term integration of returnees and reduce pressure on host communities.