Islamabad: Roza Otunbayeva, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, made a significant appeal during her visit to the Islam Qala border crossing with Iran, where she observed the daily influx of tens of thousands of Afghan returnees. Her visit included meetings with returnee families, aid partners, and regional de facto officials, highlighting the urgent humanitarian challenges faced by Afghanistan.

According to United Nations, the situation in Afghanistan is dire, with more than 1.3 million people compelled to return since January. This has placed a tremendous burden on a nation where 70 percent of the population already lives in poverty. Women and children are particularly vulnerable, as they face not only economic hardships but also limited access to basic services and social protections, exacerbated by restrictions under Taliban rule.

The humanitarian crisis is further compounded by underfunded aid operations, which force difficult choices between essential needs like food, shelter, and safe passage. Ms. Otunbayeva emphasized the need for immediate reintegration support, as stabilizing return communities requires urgent livelihood programs and infrastructure investments. Without swift intervention, there is a risk of remittance losses, labor market pressures, and cyclical migration, leading to destabilization and potential regional instability.

Ms. Otunbayeva called on donors, development partners, and regional governments to step up their efforts, warning against the consequences of unmet global responsibilities. The UN in Afghanistan advocates for an integrated approach that addresses humanitarian needs while enhancing support in return areas. Regional dialogue with countries like Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asian states is essential to ensure voluntary, dignified, and safe repatriation.

The stability of Afghanistan is a shared responsibility, and indifference could result in lives lost and conflicts reignited. Ms. Otunbayeva's message is clear: the international community must act decisively to prevent further crisis.