Huge numbers of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan have returned to Afghanistan, yet an almost equal number has remained, despite an often hostile government response. Why is this? This paper shows how livelihoods analysis can shed light on push and pull factors in people’s decision making about whether to stay or return. It forms part of a 3 country study by the AREU, which aims to produce context specific research on policy issues surrounding repatriation and long term migrant populations in the region.
This paper looks at Afghans living in Quetta, close to the border with Afghanistan. The authors present qualitative data which shows how ethnic identity, social networks and access to assets affect individuals’ perceptions of Afghanistan and the risks involved in repatriation. In particular, the research reveals the role of cross border networks in livelihood strategies.
There is a growing realisation that Afghans in Pakistan came for many different reasons: seeking refuge from political conflict, fleeing natural disaster or economic plight. Policies on both sides of the border need to be revised and offer differentiated solutions to what is considered by some to be a protracted refugee situation.
The findings of the study include that:
- ethnic links and livelihood opportunities were major factors in the decision to settle in Quetta; work available to Afghans tends to be poorly paid manual labour;
- police harassment, most commonly a tool of extortion, is the main threat that Afghans face in Quetta;
- perceptions regarding Afghanistan are highly individualised and shaped by place of origin and ethnicity.
The implications for policy makers include:
- the intergenerational differences shown in this study call for further research, as this issue will occupy a central place in any policy debate about Afghans living in Pakistan. Should refugees have more of a range of options for the future, regarding education, employment and residency?
- at the very minimum government policies must protect Afghans from harassment and extortion by state agencies – something which international agencies cannot ensure;
- this study in Quetta shows an ongoing demand for education and health services and job opportunities among the Afghan population.
