The illegal Afghans are not to be blamed for Pakistan’s economic crisis

The decision of the caretaker government to deport the illegal Afghan immigrants has given rise to a heated debate across the country.

There are conflicting points of view on this issue. The government has decided after the constant deterioration of the law and order situation in the country. These illegal immigrants were being used in suicidal attacks.

The government first allowed immigrants to leave voluntarily till 31 October. After that, they will be deported. This drive was reportedly linked to minimising cross-border terrorist actions.

Worry about the illegal immigrants

The people who are against this exodus are those who are worried about the loss of cheap labour. There were almost 1.7 million unregistered immigrants in KPK and Balochistan. They were predominantly (90%) Afghans. They provide cheap labour for construction, mining, and fruit orchards.

While the elite businessmen are quiet on this matter many Baloch and Pashtoon leaders have voiced their concerns over this policy. According to them, this policy harms their already fragile economy. They were also resentful for not being included in the policymaking.

Foreign Minister’s view

The foreign minister of Pakistan Syed Abbas Jillani said that immigrants were being dealt with according to a 2023 report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Illegal Refugees.

He defended this policy and declared that the people living on legal documents must not worry. This policy only targets illegal aliens. The authorities have been directed to show compassion for the immigrants in an honourable departure.

Local labour will fill the gap

The economists don’t see any lasting economic difficulty in the local sector. Local labour will fill the gap effectively. But its socio-political effect will be great.

In Balochistan as reports tell there is a shortage of mining workers and field hands in the province. Afghans’ contribution to the economy remains invisible.

They perform in an informal economy living out the radar of the government agencies. Their role as roti makers, chai wala, corn wala, and private security guards can not be deemed worthless.

Although these slots will be quickly filled it will remain to be discussed how much this policy will endanger and harm our future relationship with the neighbours.

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