United Nations, July 18, 2025 – A coalition of United Nations human rights experts has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating mass deportations of Afghan nationals, raising serious concerns about potential humanitarian and human rights crises. Leading the call for action is Richard Bennett, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, who, alongside other experts, published a statement highlighting the dire consequences of these actions.

The concerns center around the unprecedented scale and speed of returns, particularly impacting vulnerable populations including refugees, asylum seekers, and those fleeing persecution and conflict within Afghanistan. Experts argue that the current situation disregards international law and poses a grave risk to the safety and well-being of those being forcibly returned.

“We are deeply alarmed by the increasing number of Afghans being deported without adequate consideration of their individual circumstances and the potential for serious harm upon return,” stated Richard Bennett. “Many face the very threats they fled, including violence, discrimination, and economic hardship.”

The UN experts specifically point to the precarious human rights situation within Afghanistan, exacerbated by ongoing political instability and economic challenges. Returning individuals are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture, and other human rights violations, particularly those who have previously advocated for women's rights or opposed the current regime.

Furthermore, the rapid pace of deportations strains already limited resources within Afghanistan, hindering efforts to provide essential services and support to returning populations. This creates a vicious cycle of poverty and instability, further jeopardizing the country's long-term recovery.

The experts are urging governments worldwide to halt deportations of Afghan nationals, pending a comprehensive assessment of the human rights situation and the availability of adequate protection mechanisms. They also emphasize the need for increased humanitarian assistance to support those remaining within Afghanistan and those who have been forcibly returned.

“The international community has a responsibility to protect vulnerable Afghans and to uphold international law,” added Bennett. “We must prioritize human rights and humanitarian needs over political expediency.”

The UN statement concludes with a call for greater transparency and accountability in the deportation process, urging governments to ensure that all returns are voluntary, informed, and conducted in accordance with international human rights standards. The situation demands immediate and concerted action to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and safeguard the rights of Afghan nationals.