KABUL — The Afghanistan Women’s Political Participation Network, led by women’s rights activist Tarnnum Saeedi, in a statement on Monday condemned what it describes as “racist” behavior by Iran towards Afghan refugees, urging Tehran to end its discriminatory practices.
The network criticized Iran’s treatment of Afghan migrants, calling it “inhumane, racist, and contrary to international human rights principles and religious teachings.”
The group called on Iran and other nations to uphold the legal and human rights of refugees, advocating for their access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and social support.
The statement comes amid escalating reports of forced deportations of Afghan refugees from Iran, with many refugees complaining of mistreatment and harsh conditions.
According to reports, Iran has barred undocumented Afghan migrants from purchasing bread at bakeries, renting homes, or obtaining employment. Additionally, some Afghan refugees claim they face educational restrictions, with Iranian schools refusing to enroll Afghan children.
In the latest incident, the deaths of dozens of Afghan refugees at the Iran-Pakistan border near Saravan have sparked widespread outrage. Iranian border guards are accused of opening fire on Afghan migrants, resulting in the deaths of more than 250 people, according to some reports. However, Amu has not independently verified the details or the casualty figures of the incident.
The Afghanistan Women’s Political Participation Network urged the international community to take action, calling for the humane treatment of Afghan refugees and an end to discriminatory practices against them in host countries.
