MSF Raises Alarm Over Health Crisis Amid Pakistan’s Afghan Refugee Deportations

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has issued a report warning that the implementation of the forced expulsion plan for Afghan refugees by the Pakistan government is severely disrupting their access to healthcare…

Health Implications of Forced Deportations

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has expressed deep concern in its latest report that the intensified forced deportation of Afghans by the Pakistani government is having a devastating impact on the public health of refugees. According to the report, many migrants have reported avoiding medical treatment or delaying their care, including that of their children, for fear of being arrested either on their way to or within healthcare facilities.

Rising Malnutrition Rates and Pregnancy Risks

The international organization emphasized that fear of police harassment is leading to preventable health issues, including acute malnutrition among children and severe complications during pregnancy for women. Statistics from MSF clinics in areas like Quetta indicate that Afghan women and children make up the majority of patients suffering from severe malnutrition.

Escalation of Deportation Measures and Revocation of Protections

The Pakistani government began deporting undocumented migrants in November 2023, expanding the plan to include holders of valid residency cards (PoR and ACC) in subsequent phases. Since July 10 of this year, heightened security measures for detaining and deporting all Afghan nationals without valid visas have intensified, resulting in hundreds being returned to Afghanistan.

Urgent Call for Legal and Humanitarian Support

MSF insists that patients should not be apprehended while seeking medical care and has urged the Pakistani government to halt forced deportations. They have called for the identification of vulnerable individuals and communities to ensure a secure, legal, and unobstructed access for refugees to essential medical services.