Afghan women activists in Pakistan fear deportation risks

Female activists from Afghanistan, now in Pakistan, are worried about being deported. They fled to escape the Taliban's oppressive rule but feel their lives are in danger again as Pakistan cracks down on Afghan refugees. Zahra Mousavi, a women's rights advocate, arrived in Pakistan in March 2022. She had protested against the Taliban after they took control in August 2021. She fights for women's rights to be heard worldwide. However, Mousavi has had trouble getting a valid visa to stay in Pakistan, leading to her arrest in February. She was held with her young daughter in poor conditions until human rights activists intervened. Other activists like Jamila Ahmadi share similar fears. Some of their colleagues have already been sent back to Afghanistan. Ahmadi believes returning means certain death, given her activism against the Taliban. She faced violent attacks prior to leaving Afghanistan but remains determined to continue her work for women's rights. Pakistan has hosted many Afghan refugees for years, but tensions with the Taliban have grown. Islamabad is pushing a large repatriation plan to send back around 4 million Afghan refugees. Legal experts worry that deporting Afghan activists to Taliban rule may lead to torture or worse. Ahmadi expressed that the pressure from deportation efforts is taking a toll on her health. Local officials say the deportations are part of a broader plan and that not all deported individuals are activists. Meanwhile, the UNHCR is concerned about the deportations, particularly for those at risk upon return. Activists like Maria Noori are calling for international assistance. They warn that returning to Afghanistan could result in severe abuse or death. Lawyers criticize Western nations for not offering refuge to these women facing dire circumstances. The activists also struggle with lack of legal status, high unemployment, and health care access while living in constant fear of being sent back.