KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — Afghans forcibly returned from Pakistan say they are grappling with severe economic challenges, citing widespread unemployment and a lack of basic services as they struggle to rebuild their lives.
Atiqullah, one of the recently returned migrants, now lives in a modest neighborhood in Kandahar Province after being deported from Pakistan. He says that without a job, he is unable to afford even basic medical care.
“You can see the medical documents,” he said. “I’m seriously ill, but I have no work and no way to pay for treatment. If I had employment, I could manage my condition.”
Others echoed his concerns, saying they have been unable to find work despite searching daily. Many say they left all their possessions behind in Pakistan and returned to Afghanistan without financial resources or government support.
“There is no work. I’ve been looking every day and I don’t know what to do,” said Abdul Sattar, a Kandahar resident and returnee.
“The problems are too many,” added Rafiullah, another resident. “Poverty is increasing, desperation is everywhere, and there are no job opportunities.”
The rising number of returnees has added to the already dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan. According to United Nations estimates, more than 23 million Afghans — including large numbers of women and children — require humanitarian assistance.
The forced repatriation of Afghan migrants from Pakistan and Iran has accelerated in recent months, placing additional pressure on an already fragile economy. Many returnees say they lack access to basic healthcare, employment, and education, and are facing growing economic uncertainty in the absence of structured reintegration programs.
Human rights groups and aid agencies have warned that without immediate and sustained support, the mass return of Afghans could further destabilize communities already struggling under the weight of widespread poverty and international isolation.
