Facing chaos : Afghans threatened with deportation and an extreme humanitarian crisis

Series : The Root Causes of Migration 

As several countries, particularly in Europe, intensify the deportation of Afghan refugees, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is warning of the dangers of returning people to Afghanistan. The country remains in the grip of a severe humanitarian crisis, where large segments of the population are already suffering from hunger and a lack of essential services.

A picture showing Afghan refugees (CC picture) 

The IRC has raised alarms over a growing number of deportations from Europe despite the dire conditions in Afghanistan. Around 40% of the population is experiencing food insecurity, millions of people have been displaced by conflict and climate change, and women and girls face extreme restrictions on their access to education, employment and healthcare. By the end of 2025, more than 22000 Afghans were expected to have received orders to leave the European Union.

Paradoxically, Afghans continue to be among the main groups arriving in Europe, particularly via the Balkan Route. In 2025, they were the third-largest group applying for asylum, including a significant number of unaccompanied minors. Throughout their journeys, many face violence, exploitation, and harsh living conditions, often persisting even after they reach Europe.

Inside Afghanistan, the situation continues to deteriorate. Approximately 17 million people are facing food insecurity, with around 5 million at emergency levels approaching famine. Natural disasters, prolonged drought, ongoing conflict, and a sharp decline in international aid have deepened the crisis. The healthcare system is overwhelmed, and existing infrastructure is unable to meet the population’s growing needs.

In response, the IRC is calling on the international community to increase humanitarian funding and urging European countries to halt forced deportations until conditions for safe and dignified return are in place. According to the organization, such deportations not only endanger lives but also fall short of both moral and legal obligations.

The full report can be found here :

https://www.rescue.org/eu/press-release/irc-warns-looming-deportations-risk-afghans-returning-country-where-one-third