Afghans Risk Deadly Winter Without Shelter, UN Agency Warns

The UN refugee agency warns that vulnerable Afghans, including women and children, could lose their lives in the harsh winter if they dont receive adequate shelter after crossing the border from Pakistan.

The United Nations refugee agency has issued a dire warning, highlighting the perilous situation faced by Afghan returnees crossing the border from Pakistan. With freezing temperatures setting in and inadequate shelter, the agency emphasizes the urgent need for assistance to prevent loss of life during the harsh winter months.

Influx of Afghan Returnees

Since early October, nearly half a million Afghans have left Pakistan following the Islamabad government's announcement of arrests and deportations of undocumented foreigners. Despite Islamabad's insistence that the policy is not targeted at any specific nationality, the overwhelming majority of those affected are Afghans.

Strained Resources and Vulnerable Populations

The influx of returnees has placed immense pressure on Afghanistan and aid agencies, which are responsible for providing essential services such as healthcare. The freezing temperatures and dire conditions at the border further exacerbate the situation, leaving vulnerable populations, including women and children, at risk of losing their lives without adequate shelter.

Challenges Faced by Returnees

Many Afghan returnees arrive at the border exhausted and in need of urgent assistance, including psychosocial support. Families express concerns about the colder winter temperatures, particularly in mountainous regions, which may prevent them from returning home immediately. Additionally, many arrive ill due to the cold weather and the arduous journey from Pakistan, lacking essential belongings and clothing to protect themselves from the elements.

Assistance and Support

The U.N. refugee agency is providing tents to families who have nowhere to go and may need to stay in camps near the border. The Taliban committee at key border crossings is distributing food, water, SIM cards, clothing, and cash, while also educating families about Afghanistan, the Islamic system, temporary living arrangements, registration, and relocation.

Health Concerns and Women's Challenges

Extreme temperatures, limited access to clean water, and poor sanitation have resulted in a surge in infectious diseases and malnutrition. Afghan women and girls face additional challenges due to Taliban restrictions that could affect their mobility, access to information, and services if they lack a male relative. The U.N. Women agency reports that around 80% of Afghans returning through key border crossings are women and children.

Distressing Experiences and Exploitation

The U.N. refugee agency's report reveals distressing experiences faced by Afghan women in Pakistan, including illegal detention, witnessing the arrest of spouses or family members, separation from relatives, and returning to Afghanistan alone. Women have also reported being compelled to hand over their possessions for transportation, leaving behind all their belongings, or having their income taken by Pakistani authorities.

Controversial Crackdown and Condemnation

The controversial crackdown has drawn widespread condemnation from rights groups, the Taliban, aid agencies, and the U.N. The situation highlights the urgent need for international attention and support to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.