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Jun 18, 20261
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Over 6 Million Afghans Return from Iran and Pakistan Since September 2023, UN Reports

Over 6.04 million Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan since late September 2023, according to an International Organization for Migration report. The large-scale return has strained local communities and humanitarian organizations, creating significant pressure on shelter, healthcare, and employment resources.


Quick Facts
Who
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
What
Release of IOM report on Afghan returns
When
Since late September 2023
Where
Afghanistan
- Release of IOM report on Afghan returns
- Mass return of Afghans from neighboring countries
- Strain on local communities and aid organizations
- Expansion of reintegration efforts
- International Organization for Migration (IOM)
More than 6.04 million Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from neighboring Iran and Pakistan since late September 2023, according to a report released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The large-scale return movement represents a significant demographic shift, reflecting ongoing instability and economic challenges in the region that have prompted Afghans to seek better conditions by returning home.
The influx of returnees has placed considerable strain on local communities and humanitarian organizations. Many of those returning require urgent assistance with shelter, healthcare, employment, and access to basic services. The rapid reintegration of such large numbers has overwhelmed existing support systems, creating a complex humanitarian situation that extends beyond immediate relief needs to longer-term socio-economic challenges.
Afghanistan has witnessed a significant increase in cross-border returns over the past two years, prompting government agencies and aid organizations to expand reintegration efforts. The IOM has emphasized the critical need for sustained international support to help address the growing humanitarian and socio-economic challenges associated with the return of families and individuals. Without adequate international assistance, the country's capacity to effectively support and reintegrate returnees remains limited.
Why This Matters
This mass return of over 6 million Afghans represents a critical humanitarian crisis that directly impacts regional stability and global refugee policy. The strain on Afghanistan's already fragile infrastructure threatens the viability of reintegration efforts and highlights the urgent need for sustained international aid. Understanding this trend is essential for stakeholders involved in development, humanitarian response, and geopolitical analysis in South Asia.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireIOM releases report documenting 6.04 million returns