Doctors Without Borders Highlights Health Crisis Amid Forced Deportations of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan

The international organization Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has issued a report warning that the implementation of forced deportations of Afghan refugees by the Pakistani government has severely disrupted their access to medical care…

Warning About the Health Consequences of Forced Deportations

MSF has raised alarms in its latest report about the escalating trend of forced deportations of Afghans by the Pakistani government, which has resulted in devastating impacts on the public health of these refugees. According to the report, many migrants have stated that they avoid visiting doctors or delay the treatment of themselves and their children due to fears of arrest while en route to or inside medical facilities.

Rising Rates of Child Malnutrition and Pregnancy Risks

This international body emphasizes that the reluctance to seek healthcare, stemming from police fears, has led to preventable health issues, including acute malnutrition among children and severe complications during pregnancy for women. Data from MSF clinics in areas like Quetta indicates that a substantial portion of patients suffering from severe malnutrition is comprised of Afghan women and children.

Expansion of the Deportation Scheme and Revocation of Protections

The Pakistani government initiated the process of returning unregistered migrants in November 2023 and later expanded this scheme to include holders of valid residency cards (PoR and ACC). Since July 10 of this year, security measures have intensified to detain and deport all Afghan nationals without valid visas, resulting in hundreds being sent back to Afghanistan so far.

Urgent Call for Legal and Humanitarian Support

Doctors Without Borders has stressed that patients should not face arrest while trying to access medical facilities. The organization has urged the Pakistani government to halt forced deportations and ensure safe, legal, and unhindered access for refugees to essential healthcare services by identifying vulnerable individuals and communities.