UN agency warns of Afghans dying in harsh winter without proper shelter

Afghans returning from Pakistan are at risk of dying in harsh winter conditions if they do not have proper shelter, warns the UN refugee agency. Nearly half a million Afghans have left Pakistan since October, after the Islamabad government announced it would arrest and deport foreigners. The majority of those affected are from neighboring Afghanistan, and their forced returns are putting immense strain on both Afghanistan and aid agencies providing essential services. With freezing temperatures setting in and conditions at the border remaining dire, the UN agency emphasized the urgent need for assistance and shelter to prevent loss of life among vulnerable Afghan returnees, particularly women and children.

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The U.N. refugee agency warns of Afghans dying in harsh winter conditions

The U.N. refugee agency has issued a warning about the dire conditions that Afghan refugees face in the harsh winter weather if they do not have proper shelter. As winter sets in, the agency is concerned that without adequate protection, Afghans could lose their lives. This situation is particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups such as women and children. Urgent assistance and psychosocial support are needed to help these individuals.

Afghans at risk without proper shelter

With the onset of winter, the risks for Afghan returnees without proper shelter are increasing. The U.N. refugee agency has highlighted the vulnerability of women and children in particular. Without adequate shelter, they may face life-threatening dangers from freezing temperatures and harsh weather conditions. Urgent action is required to ensure their safety and well-being.

Half a million Afghans have left Pakistan

Since October, nearly half a million Afghans have left Pakistan. The decision by the Pakistani government to arrest and deport foreigners it deems to be in the country illegally has led to a significant influx of Afghan returnees. While Islamabad claims that the policy does not target a specific nationality, the overwhelming majority of those affected are from neighboring Afghanistan. This mass exodus is creating significant challenges for both Afghanistan and aid agencies.

Forced returns put pressure on Afghanistan and aid agencies

The forced returns of Afghan refugees from Pakistan are putting immense pressure on Afghanistan and aid agencies. These returnees rely heavily on the essential services provided by aid agencies, especially healthcare. With limited resources and capacity, Afghanistan is now struggling to cope with the increased demand caused by the forced returns. Urgent action is needed to ensure that these returnees receive the necessary support and care.

Cold weather and difficult journey from Pakistan cause illness

The cold winter weather and the arduous journey from Pakistan are causing health problems for Afghan returnees. Many are arriving with illnesses such as bronchitis, which are often a result of the harsh weather conditions. The difficult journey exacerbates these health issues, making it even more challenging for returnees to recover. Adequate medical care and support are essential to address these health concerns effectively.

Families may not be able to return home right away in certain areas

Winter temperatures in mountainous regions of Afghanistan may delay the return of some families. These frigid conditions make it unsafe for them to immediately go back to their homes. The concern for these families is how to protect themselves from the elements while they wait for the weather to improve. Temporary arrangements and support are needed to ensure their safety and well-being during this time.

Families without homes or extended family face challenges

Some Afghan families who are returning from Pakistan are facing additional challenges because they do not have homes or extended family to go back to. These generational Afghan families have been living in Pakistan for one or more generations and may have limited social networks in Afghanistan. Cash is needed for rent and repairs, and these families have limited options for finding suitable housing and support networks. Assistance is crucial to help them overcome these challenges.

Tents will be provided for households in need

To address the immediate shelter needs of Afghan returnees, the U.N. refugee agency will provide tents to households that do not have proper shelter. These tents will serve as a temporary solution until permanent housing or repairs become available. It is vital to ensure that these families have a safe and secure place to stay during the harsh winter conditions.

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Some families may stay in camps near the border

For families who have no alternative options, staying in camps near the border may be the only choice. These families lack the means to secure housing elsewhere and may have no social networks to rely on. In these camps, they can receive basic assistance, such as food, water, clothing, and cash. The Taliban committee is playing a role in distributing aid at key border crossings, providing support and guidance to these families during this challenging time.

Challenges for Afghan women and girls leaving Pakistan

Afghan women and girls face specific challenges when leaving Pakistan due to Taliban restrictions. These restrictions can affect their mobility and access to services, especially if they do not have a male relative accompanying them. This situation is further compounded by the distressing experiences that women have already faced in Pakistan, including illegal detention, witnessing arrests, and being separated from their families. Support and resources must be provided to ensure the safety and well-being of Afghan women and girls during their return to Afghanistan.

In conclusion, the U.N. refugee agency’s warning about Afghans dying in harsh winter conditions emphasizes the urgent need for proper shelter and support for Afghan returnees. The challenges faced by these individuals and families require immediate attention and action from both Afghanistan and aid agencies. By addressing these needs, we can ensure the safety and well-being of Afghan refugees during the harsh winter months.

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