February–April 2025 · Rainbow Voice Afghanistan
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Arrests, detention and deportation pressure affecting Afghan nationals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have created growing fear among refugees with unresolved protection cases.
Afghan LGBTQI+ refugees say the enforcement environment is especially dangerous for people who fled threats from the Taliban, family members or local communities.
Many fear that a routine document check could lead to detention and eventual return to Afghanistan before their individual protection needs are properly assessed.
Changing enforcement measures have left many refugees uncertain about which documents remain valid and whether renewal is possible.
Community members report receiving conflicting information from unofficial sources, social media and word of mouth.
The confusion has caused some people to avoid work, hospitals, legal appointments and public transport.
An LGBTQI+ refugee may appear to have the same immigration status as other Afghan nationals while facing a very different level of danger if returned.
Past attacks, family threats, public exposure, gender expression and previous contact with Taliban authorities can all affect the level of risk.
Advocates say these factors must be considered before any removal decision is made.
Detention can be particularly unsafe for transgender people and others whose identity is visible.
Placement based only on official documents may expose detainees to harassment, humiliation or violence.
People in detention may also lose access to medication, telephones, lawyers and trusted contacts.
Many refugees do not know how to find qualified legal help or cannot afford it.
Fear of approaching authorities, language barriers and sudden changes of address can make it harder to prepare or update a protection case.
Some people turn to unofficial agents who promise visas or resettlement in exchange for money, increasing the risk of fraud.
Protection advocates say no Afghan should be deported without access to legal advice and a meaningful opportunity to explain the harm they may face.
They are also calling for confidentiality during interviews, particularly when applicants discuss sexual orientation, gender identity, family violence or past abuse.
Afghan LGBTQI+ refugees under return pressure may need emergency accommodation, transportation, document support, telephone credit and confidential referrals.
Community organizations say clear communication from governments and international agencies is essential so that applicants do not miss interviews or deadlines.
For many refugees, the central fear is not only detention in Pakistan but the possibility of being returned to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Until legal status and protection cases are resolved, many LGBTQI+ Afghans remain unable to work safely, plan for the future or live openly.