The recent brutal and forced deportation of Afghans [who used to reside in Pakistan for decades] from Pakistan has presented a formidable challenge for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan [IEA], necessitating a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to their reintegration into Afghanistan. However, the positive reality is that many of these deported Afghan individuals possess valuable skills and knowledge acquired during their stay in Pakistan, making their successful reintegration not only a humanitarian imperative but also an opportunity to contribute significantly to the rebuilding of their home country. In order to achieve this, practical and effective strategies must be employed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to address the diverse needs of the returning Afghan refugees as well as use their skills and knowledge aimed at prospering the community. I must affirm that one key element of a successful reintegration strategy is to leverage the skills and knowledge that the Afghan refugees bring back with them. Recognizing and validating the expertise acquired during their time in Pakistan is crucial. Establishing vocational training programs that build upon their existing skills can enhance their employability and empower them to contribute meaningfully to Afghanistan’s economic growth. This approach not only addresses the immediate need for sustainable livelihoods but also capitalizes on the potential for skill transfer within communities. On the other hand, I believe that education plays a pivotal role in the successful reintegration of Afghan refugees, especially considering the number of young individuals among them. Creating accessible and tailored educational opportunities can help bridge any gaps in their learning and ensure a smooth transition into the Afghan education system. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, in addition to fostering educational opportunities for deported Afghan refugees, can also use from the cutting-edge expertise and skills of those Afghan refugees who are equipped with higher education and extraordinary competencies, contributing to the country’s educational development, economic growth, reconstruction, and development efforts. Indeed, the devastating war over the past five decades in Afghanistan has left the country with dire need of human capital and expertise to rebuild its infrastructure, institutions, and economy. Most of these talented deported young Afghans, who might have been exposed to different educational systems and businesses [working at Pakistani factories and industrial companies] during their stay in Pakistan, could potentially play a pivotal role in this process. Likewise, fostering entrepreneurship initiatives can be a potent tool for the economic reintegration of Afghan refugees. Many of them may harbor aspirations to start their own businesses, and providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and financial support can catalyze the creation of small enterprises. Let’s put it in other words that any initiative that encourages entrepreneurship not only contributes to economic growth but also instills a sense of self-reliance and empowerment among returning Afghan refugees. Besides, let’s not forget that addressing the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of returning Afghan refugees is paramount. The trauma of forced deportation [reportedly caused by harsh and savage treatment of Pakistani security forces] and the challenges of reintegration can have lasting effects on deported individuals and families. Establishing mental health support services and community-based counseling programs can provide essential resources for those grappling with the emotional toll of displacement. Collaboration with mental health professionals can ensure that the unique needs of returnees are met with sensitivity and expertise. Last but not least, infrastructure development is another crucial facet of effective reintegration. The return of a significant number of individuals places strain on existing resources, necessitating investment in housing, healthcare facilities, and basic amenities. Collaborative efforts between the Afghan government, entrepreneurs, and the private sector can facilitate the construction of infrastructure that meets the immediate needs of returnees while laying the foundation for sustainable development as well as creating an opportunity for them to serve their country as part of the infrastructural initiative. In conclusion, the forced and unwelcome deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan demands a multifaceted and responsive approach to ensure their effective reintegration into Afghanistan. Leveraging their skills, prioritizing education, fostering entrepreneurship, addressing mental health needs, and investing in infrastructure efforts are all critical components of a comprehensive strategy that should be employed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. By adopting such an approach, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan can contribute to not only alleviating the immediate challenges faced by returnees but also laying the groundwork for a more resilient and prosperous Afghanistan.
Deported Afghan refugees are invaluable assets for IEA
