A Comprehensive Policy for Afghan Refugees is Needed

The presence and return of Afghan refugees are complex issues  which calls for a calculated and comprehensive policy  on part of Pakistan, this was suggested by Dr. Nasreen Ghufran, Professor of International Relations at the University of Peshawar, during a roundtable conference held on April 28.
The seminar which was entitled  “Afghan Refugees in Pakistan: Current Situation and Future Scenario” was chaired by Pakistan’s former foreign secretary Tanvir Ahmad Khan while a mixed gathering of government officials, politicians, intellectuals and academicians participated in it.
Dr. Nasreen Ghufran made a detailed presentation about the different dimensions and issues of Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan. She suggested that a proper legislative framework and professional mechanism for the assessment and return of the refugees can warrant disposal of the problem.
The speaker observed that Pakistan shall not push Afghan refugees to return unless they are provided a hospitable environment, sustainable livelihood, financial assistance, and shelter.
Partaking in discussion, the participants called on Afghan government and UNHCR to help Afghan refugees assimilate in the mainstream Afghan society.
Prof. Khurshid Ahmad made final remarks and thanked the guests.