At least 786,769 Afghan citizens left Afghanistan between July and September 2024, according to a report from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). During the same period, 973,696 individuals entered the country, reflecting ongoing border movements between Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.
The IOM conducted interviews with over 90,000 individuals at 11 border crossings with Iran and Pakistan to better understand the reasons for these migrations. The report, titled “Mobility Dynamics at Afghanistan’s Borders,” highlights a range of motivations for the cross-border movement, including economic opportunities, access to healthcare, family visits, and safety concerns.
The report underscores the significant Afghan migrant populations in neighboring countries, estimating that nearly six million Afghans currently reside in Iran and Pakistan. As of September 2024, approximately 3.75 million Afghan nationals were living in Iran, while 2.05 million were in Pakistan.
Pakistan, the report notes, remains a popular destination for Afghan medical travelers despite higher healthcare costs. This cross-border dynamic continues to shape the lives of millions of Afghans, as they navigate the challenges of migration and access to services.
Earlier this year, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that Afghans now constitute the world’s largest refugee population, surpassing Syrians.
