Islamabad – Tarz Press has confirmed that an Afghan refugee, who had been waiting in Pakistan for resettlement to a third country, committed suicide last night in a guesthouse in Islamabad.
The refugee, identified as Shir, was from Panjshir Province and had been an applicant under the Canadian resettlement program. Shir had been waiting for months to receive migration approval, but prolonged delays in the processing of his case placed him under extreme stress, ultimately leading to his tragic decision to end his life.
Sources close to Shir confirmed the suicide in conversations with Tarz Press, reporting that his body is currently at a city hospital in Islamabad.
Afghan Refugee Crisis in Pakistan
Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, thousands of Afghans fled to neighboring countries, including Pakistan, in search of safety. Many of these individuals, forced to flee due to security threats, now face prolonged uncertainty regarding their legal status and future.
Pakistan, a primary destination for Afghan refugees, has recently implemented strict policies against migrants. In 2023, the Pakistani government launched a widespread campaign to deport undocumented migrants, especially Afghans. This crackdown resulted in the arrest and forced return of tens of thousands. Alongside economic challenges, residency restrictions, and limited access to essential services, Afghan refugees have faced mounting psychological pressures.
Delays in Migration Processing and Their Consequences
Many Afghan refugees in Pakistan are waiting for resettlement in countries like Canada and the United States. However, the migration application processes have been excruciatingly slow, leaving applicants in limbo for months or even years. These delays have led to increased despair and mental health issues among refugees, resulting in cases of suicide and other psychological traumas.
Analysts and human rights activists have warned that if these delays persist, they could lead to a rise in suicides and a broader humanitarian crisis. International organizations, including the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), have repeatedly called on Western countries to expedite resettlement processes and provide more support to refugees.
Human rights advocates stress that host countries, including Canada and the United States, must take their responsibilities seriously and accelerate the review of migration cases. They argue that any delay directly endangers thousands of lives and could result in further humanitarian tragedies.
According to these activists, the suicide of this Afghan refugee serves as a wake-up call for the international community and human rights organizations to address the escalating crisis.
