DefinePK

Abstract

Over several decades, Pakistan has hosted a substantial population of Afghan refugees, instigating a myriad of legal and humanitarian challenges that traverse diverse aspects of society and governance. This research paper delves into the multifaceted difficulties encountered by Afghan refugees and the Pakistani government, elucidating both the legal frameworks that govern refugee status and rights in Pakistan and the humanitarian crises emanating from mass displacement. Utilizing a comprehensive approach, this study encompasses an analysis of Pakistan’s legal apparatus pertaining to refugees, particularly the Afghan cohort, and scrutinizes the on-the-ground humanitarian challenges, including access to basic necessities, healthcare, education, and employment. Through a blend of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, the paper amalgamates data from legal documents, governmental and non-governmental reports, and primary data from interviews and surveys conducted within refugee communities. Additionally, the research juxtaposes the lived experiences of refugees with the stipulated legal and policy frameworks, revealing disparities and unmet needs that permeate their existence in Pakistan. An exploration of international refugee and human rights law further provides a comparative lens through which Pakistan’s efforts and shortcomings are critically analyzed. The paper culminates in a set of policy recommendations aimed at ameliorating the legal and humanitarian status quo for Afghan refugees in Pakistan, advocating for reforms that resonate with human rights principles, pragmatic governance, and collaborative international efforts. This study not only contributes to the academic discourse on refugees and human rights but also propounds practical insights for policymakers, humanitarian organizations, and legal practitioners navigating the complexities of refugee management and protection.||Keywords: Afghan Refugees, Human Rights, Legal Challenges, Humanitarian Challenges, Refugee Law, Pakistan, Policy Recommendations.