UN Calls for Investigation into Deadly Migration Tragedy in Afghanistan

Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, has called for an investigation into the factors driving Afghans to undertake perilous migration journeys following the deaths of 19 Afghan citizens during a smuggling attempt. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has also described this incident as a “deep tragedy” and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

Sympathy for the Victims’ Families

On Saturday, August 1st, Bennett expressed his condolences on social media and characterized the event as “horrific.” He emphasized that the international community must address the root causes of the issues that compel many Afghan citizens to resort to dangerous and illegal migration routes.

Focus on Addressing the Roots of the Migration Crisis

The UN Special Rapporteur stated that the examination and resolution of the key drivers behind perilous migrations must be prioritized. He noted that preventing such tragedies requires addressing the conditions that push people to leave their country and choose dangerous paths.

Response from the International Organization for Migration

Simultaneously, the IOM expressed sorrow over the deaths of these Afghan citizens in a message. The organization underscored that the loss of any life in migration routes represents a “deep tragedy” and emphasized the need for increasing support for migrants and establishing safe pathways.

Details of the Incident in Nimroz Province

About two weeks ago, a group of 19 Afghan citizens, attempting to illegally enter Iran, went missing in the plains of Nimroz Province. Reports indicate that the bodies of five individuals were discovered on July 16 in the “Margo” plain, while the remains of 14 others were found late last week in the sandy areas of the “Lalo” plain in Nimroz. This incident has once again drawn the attention of international organizations to the dangers of illegal migration routes and the situation of Afghan migrants.