Mawlavi Abdul Kabir, Afghanistan’s Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, announced that approximately 6.8 million Afghan refugees have returned to their homeland since the Islamic Emirate regained control of the country, citing improving security and stability across Afghanistan.

Speaking at a recent meeting with officials and representatives from relevant institutions, Mawlavi Abdul Kabir said the large-scale return reflects growing confidence among Afghan refugees in the country’s security environment and governance under the Islamic Emirate. He noted that millions of Afghans who had lived for decades in neighboring countries and beyond are now choosing to return and rebuild their lives in their homeland.

The minister emphasized that the Islamic Emirate is working to manage the return process through the Permanent Migration Solution Plan, a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing long-standing migration challenges, supporting returnees, and providing durable solutions for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The plan focuses on housing, access to basic services, employment opportunities, and the gradual reintegration of returnees into their local communities.

Mawlavi Abdul Kabir stated that the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation is coordinating closely with other government bodies to ensure land allocation, temporary shelter, and humanitarian assistance for returnees, particularly those arriving with limited resources. He added that special attention is being given to vulnerable groups, including widows, orphans, and families displaced by years of conflict and drought.

He also highlighted that, despite limited resources and the challenges caused by international sanctions and frozen Afghan assets, the Islamic Emirate has made tangible progress in restoring security nationwide, which has been a key factor encouraging refugees to return voluntarily.

Officials said efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation with humanitarian organizations to improve service delivery for returnees, while calling on the international community to move beyond political pressure and support the Afghan people’s right to rebuild their country.

“The return of millions of Afghans is a clear sign that the era of war and chaos has ended,” Mawlavi Abdul Kabir said. “With unity, stability, and sincere cooperation, Afghanistan can provide a dignified life for all its citizens.”

Afghanistan has long been one of the world’s largest refugee-producing countries, with millions displaced by decades of occupation and conflict. The Islamic Emirate has repeatedly called for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Afghan refugees, stressing that their skills and experience are vital for the country’s reconstruction and long-term development. (ILKHA)