Iran’s Atrocities and Pakistan’s Compassion towards Afghan Refugees

The shocking reports of Iranian forces allegedly killing over 260 Afghan migrants during a border shooting incident highlight a grievous breach of human rights and an alarming disregard for Afghan lives. In stark contrast, Pakistan has consistently shown compassion towards Afghan refugees, providing a refuge for those fleeing violence and persecution.

This tragic event underscores a disturbing pattern of violence against Afghan refugees in Iran, where instead of finding safety, many face brutality and abuse.

New Legislation and Harsh Realities

In past months, videos from unknown sources have surfaced, showing horrific violence against Afghan refugees in Iran. These videos depict the harsh realities Afghans face, further underscoring the hostile environment created by Iranian authorities.

Additionally, Iranian lawmakers have proposed legislation that would impose severe prison terms on undocumented migrants and permit security forces to shoot at vehicles suspected of carrying refugees. This law would affect Iran’s 3.5 million-strong Afghan community, many of whom live without legal status or basic rights. Over the years, more than 1000 Afghans have been killed in border clashes with Iranian forces, a tragic reflection of the dangers they face.

Also See: Pakistan’s 40-Year Journey With Afghan Refugees

Global Challenges Faced by Afghan Refugees

Moreover, Iran has continued deporting thousands of Afghan refugees without due process, exposing them to further violence. Globally, Afghan refugees struggle with similar challenges: in Europe, many face discrimination and barriers to asylum, while in Turkey, 60% of Afghan refugees live below the poverty line, leaving them vulnerable to extreme hardship.

Pakistan’s Compassionate Approach

In stark contrast, Pakistan has consistently shown compassion towards Afghan refugees. Despite not being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, Pakistan has hosted over 3 million Afghan refugees for decades.

Through Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, Pakistan has provided legal residency, allowing Afghan refugees access to education and healthcare. Around 400,000 Afghan children are enrolled in Pakistani schools, and many have integrated into the local economy.

Compassion vs. Hostility

While Pakistan faces its own challenges in managing such a large refugee population, its approach emphasizes compassion and support. The contrast between Pakistan’s humanitarian efforts and the hostility Afghan refugees experience in Iran is stark. As the world grapples with how to handle refugee crises, there is an urgent need for accountability, particularly for countries like Iran, where violence against vulnerable populations persists.

Advocating for Compassion

The violence and mistreatment of Afghan migrants, especially in Iran, demand a global response that prioritizes the humane treatment of refugees. By focusing on compassion and empathy, we can advocate for a world where those fleeing violence and persecution are met with safety and support, not hostility.

PAYF Insights are social media threads by various authors, reproduced here for wider consumption.