Pakistan’s Role in Global Refugee Talks:
From UNHCR Forums to Policy Reform
Focuses on Pakistan’s voice at UNHCR summits and how the country advocates for international burden-sharing, funding support, and refugee protection frameworks.
Pakistan at the Global Refugee Table:
UNHCR Forums and the Call for Shared Responsibility
Introduction: More Than a Host — A Voice for Refugee Rights
For over four decades, Pakistan has hosted one of the world’s largest refugee populations — primarily Afghan nationals fleeing war, persecution, and poverty. But Pakistan is not just a country of refuge. It’s also a key voice at international platforms, especially UNHCR forums, calling for fairer global responsibility and better refugee protection policies.
In every high-level meeting — from Geneva to New York — Pakistan brings a critical perspective shaped by experience. This article explores how Pakistan uses these platforms to advocate for both its own needs and those of the refugees it shelters.
What Are UNHCR Forums?
The UNHCR Global Refugee Forum (GRF) and related summits are:
- International platforms for policy discussions, pledges, and partnerships
- Held every four years under the Global Compact on Refugees
- Attended by governments, NGOs, civil society, and refugee representatives
- Focused on durable solutions, burden-sharing, and innovations in refugee support
Pakistan has actively participated in every major forum, often as a co-convener or featured speaker.
Pakistan’s Core Messages at UNHCR Platforms
In speeches and submissions, Pakistan repeatedly emphasizes:
1. Global Burden Sharing
“Hosting refugees should not be the responsibility of a few neighboring countries. The international community must share the load.”
Pakistan demands:
- Increased international funding
- Resettlement quotas in developed countries
- More support for host community development
2. Voluntary, Safe, and Dignified Repatriation
“Refugees must return home when conditions allow — not under pressure, and not into poverty or conflict.”
Pakistan supports repatriation but insists:
- It must be voluntary and coordinated with UNHCR and Afghanistan
- Returnees must receive reintegration support, not abandonment
3. Investment in Host Communities
“Local populations who share their schools, hospitals, and jobs with refugees need international recognition and reward.”
Pakistan pushes for:
- Infrastructure development in refugee-hosting areas
- Joint services that benefit both refugees and locals
- Social cohesion programs to reduce tension
4. Legal Recognition and Protection
“Undocumented refugees cannot live in shadows. Legal identity is the first step to dignity.”
Pakistan has received praise for:
- Launching PoR and ACC card programs
- Partnering with UNHCR and NADRA to document refugees
- Advocating for birth registration of refugee children
Highlight: Pakistan at the Global Refugee Forum 2019 & 2023
2019, Geneva:
- Pakistan’s delegation called for a “10-year plan” for Afghan repatriation
- Demanded international support for education, health, and livelihoods
- Highlighted its non-refoulement policy and long-standing hospitality
2023, Geneva:
- Emphasized the strain on Pakistan’s economy due to long-term displacement
- Urged countries to increase resettlement quotas and ease asylum policies
- Pushed for regional solutions involving all Afghan neighbors and the Taliban government
“The international community must move beyond applause to action. Pakistan has done its part — now others must step up.”
— Pakistan’s Statement at GRF 2023
Diplomacy Meets Domestic Reality
While Pakistan’s voice is strong at global platforms, domestic policy has grown more complex, especially in recent years:
- In 2023–2024, Pakistan initiated a “repatriation campaign” for undocumented Afghans
- UNHCR and human rights groups raised concerns about forced returns and rights violations
- This created tension between humanitarian commitments and national security concerns
Despite this, Pakistan remains a key stakeholder in UNHCR’s global strategy, and a model of long-term hosting — though imperfect, under-resourced, and politically sensitive.
Building Global Partnerships
At international forums, Pakistan has secured:
- Support from EU and Scandinavian countries for host community development
- Technical aid from UN agencies (e.g., ILO, UNICEF) for refugee education and employment
- Bilateral partnerships with countries like Germany, Canada, and Japan to expand refugee services
These partnerships signal the increasing importance of multilateralism in solving refugee challenges.
Pakistan’s Impact by the Numbers
- Over 4.4 million Afghan refugees hosted since 1979
- Current registered refugees: 1.3 million (PoR holders)
- 850,000+ Afghan Citizen Card holders
- Millions of dollars pledged by international donors after Pakistan’s advocacy at UNHCR forums
Final Thoughts: From Crisis to Global Cooperation
Pakistan’s decades-long experience with Afghan refugees gives it a moral voice and policy credibility at UNHCR forums. It speaks not only for its own needs — but for every country carrying a disproportionate humanitarian load.
As displacement crises grow worldwide, Pakistan’s demand for equity, dignity, and global cooperation remains more relevant than ever.
“Refugee protection is not charity — it is shared responsibility. Pakistan has led by example. Now the world must follow.”
— UNHCR Statement, GRF 2023
