Slow Progress in Repatriation: KP Lags Behind as Afghan Nationals Continue Returning Across Pakistan

Peshawar: The repatriation of undocumented Afghan nationals continues across Pakistan, but the process in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remains notably slow compared to the federal government’s directive and the progress made in other provinces.

Under the federal government’s Illegal Foreigner Repatriation Plan (IFRP), the country began a phased and comprehensive strategy to repatriate Afghans residing illegally in Pakistan — a move aimed at safeguarding national security, protecting state resources, and countering terrorism.

According to the plan, Afghan refugee camps nationwide were to be de-notified in phases. Following the implementation of Phase 3, a total of **54 Afghan refugee camps were formally declared non-operational** — 43 in KP, 10 in Balochistan, and one in Punjab. The de-notification process was completed on 25 September, 13 October, and 15 October 2025.

Punjab and Balochistan acted promptly on the federal policy. Punjab successfully **cleared its only Afghan camp in Mianwali**, achieving full compliance. Balochistan identified records of over **88,000 Afghan nationals**, whose repatriation is currently underway and expected to be completed by December.

In stark contrast, KP’s progress has been described as deeply concerning. Out of **43 de-notified Afghan camps**, the provincial authorities have managed to clear only **two**, while the remaining camps continue to function despite being legally decommissioned. The KP government is still providing residents with electricity, water, healthcare, and other basic facilities — a clear deviation from the federal plan.

Officials say the continued operation of these camps highlights weaknesses in KP’s administrative capacity and reflects poor implementation of national policy. The situation is adding pressure on the province’s already limited resources. More seriously, credible evidence has surfaced linking Afghan nationals in KP to acts of terrorism, raising urgent security concerns.

Despite clear federal directives, KP has been unable to ensure timely and effective enforcement of the IFRP, prompting criticism of the provincial government’s handling of the repatriation process.