The United Nations issued a stern rebuke on Thursday against the Taliban's handling of Afghan refugees who were forcibly returned to their homeland, citing severe human rights violations. A detailed report produced by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the UN Human Rights Office, based on interviews with 49 returnees, illuminated distressing abuses including torture, arbitrary arrests, and threats to personal safety.

The report highlighted that women and girls, media personnel, civil society workers, and former government and security officials are particularly vulnerable. These groups reported not only physical violence but also severe restrictions hindering their freedom and ability to reintegrate into society. For instance, one female journalist described the drastic curtailment of work opportunities and movement for women.

In light of these findings, the UN has urged the Taliban to respect Afghanistan's international obligations under human rights law. The global body called for an immediate halt to the persecution of former political figures and other returnees, advocating for the protection of all individuals' rights within the nation.

Furthermore, the UN emphasized the importance of individual assessments by member states before repatriating individuals to Afghanistan, warning against returns that could lead to human rights abuses. The organization also appealed for increased financial aid to assist in the reintegration of returnees and to establish safe pathways for those needing to flee due to potential threats.

The issue of forced returns breaches the principle of non-refoulement, a fundamental aspect of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, which prohibits the return of individuals to countries where they face serious threats to their life or freedom. This principle was notably highlighted when the UN criticized Germany's recent deportations of Afghan nationals.

Interviewees shared harrowing experiences of beatings, detentions, and constant threats from authorities, severely affecting their daily lives and safety. Many, including former government officials, have resorted to hiding due to fear of reprisals despite the Taliban's previous assurances of amnesty.

This report comes amidst ongoing scrutiny by international bodies of the Taliban's governance, particularly concerning the severe restrictions on the rights of women and girls. The ICC's recent issuance of arrest warrants for Taliban leaders over the persecution of women underscores the international community's increasing concern and intervention efforts.

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan continues to deteriorate, marked by escalating poverty, hunger, and a surging influx of returning migrants, compounding the challenges faced by those forced back to a country still in turmoil.