The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and its partners launched a new initiative on February 15, 2023, in Islamabad, Pakistan, to provide support to Afghan refugees. The initiative aims to address the growing needs of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and livelihoods. The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan, international organizations, and local NGOs.
The UNHCR estimates that there are over 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees in Pakistan, with an additional 1.5 million undocumented Afghans. The initiative will focus on providing access to essential services for these refugees, including education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. It will also aim to promote self-reliance and integration into Pakistani society.
The launch of the initiative comes at a time when the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is deteriorating rapidly. The country is facing a severe economic crisis, and millions of people are in need of assistance. The initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, providing them with much-needed support and opportunities.