Pakistan’s evolving Afghan refugee policy contrasts with Germany’s more immediate security-focused deportations, highlighting different approaches to balancing humanitarianism and national security.

Germany recently deported 28 Afghan asylum seekers, focusing specifically on those with criminal records. This move is part of a broader strategy to address growing security concerns following a series of violent incidents involving asylum seekers that have heightened public fears and intensified scrutiny of the country’s immigration policies. With the country’s political needle shifting rightward in recent years, immigration and asylum have become highly charged political topics. The public is increasingly demanding tighter immigration controls, particularly in response to security risks linked to individuals within the asylum-seeking population.

Since 2015, when Germany opened its borders to hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers from war-torn regions like Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq, it has been at the center of Europe’s immigration debate. Initially praised as a humanitarian effort, integrating so many refugees has posed significant challenges. Security threats from a small subset of the refugee population have stoked public fears. Incidents of violence involving asylum seekers have further strained public opinion, pushing the country toward more restrictive immigration policies. The recent deportations are Germany’s attempt to balance its humanitarian responsibilities with the need to maintain national security—a dilemma many European countries are grappling with.

The deportations of Afghan asylum seekers highlight the complexity of Germany’s position. On one hand, the country is bound by international conventions to protect those fleeing persecution. On the other, its responsibility to safeguard its citizens has led to the expulsion of individuals with criminal records. This balancing act has become a politically charged issue, especially with far-right movements gaining momentum by advocating for stricter immigration policies. By deporting individuals with criminal histories, Germany’s government appears to be addressing public concerns while attempting to undercut the influence of far-right political actors ahead of elections.

In stark contrast to Germany’s more immediate security-driven approach, Pakistan has been widely recognized for its remarkable hospitality toward Afghan refugees. For over 40 years, Pakistan has hosted more than four million Afghan refugees, many of whom fled the Soviet invasion in 1979 and subsequent conflicts. Pakistan’s open-door policy is unparalleled in scale and duration, offering refuge despite its economic and security challenges. The strain on Pakistan’s infrastructure, resources, and economy has been immense, compounded by a porous border that has enabled militants to infiltrate the country, further exacerbating security risks and internal instability. Yet, Pakistan has largely maintained a tolerant approach, allowing Afghan refugees access to education, employment, and a path to integration.

Unlike Germany, where deportations are linked to criminal records and immediate security concerns, Pakistan has historically followed a more lenient path. Afghan refugees have led relatively integrated lives, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. However, after decades of this open policy, Pakistan has begun to reconsider its approach. In recent years, the influx of illegal immigrants, some of whom have been linked to criminal activities and terrorism, has led Pakistan to implement new regulations to manage its Afghan population. The decision to deport only illegal immigrants is a response to both security threats and economic pressures. Pakistan’s move is not about turning its back on Afghan refugees but about ensuring those who remain in the country do so legally and without posing a security threat.

Pakistan’s policy shift reflects an evolving strategy: regulating the Afghan presence while maintaining a respectful and dignified deportation process. This approach underscores Pakistan’s commitment to balancing its humanitarian responsibilities with the need to uphold the rule of law and protect its citizens. While some illegal Afghan immigrants have been linked to terrorism, Pakistan’s government has taken care to ensure that deportations are conducted with dignity. This measured response contrasts more aggressive deportation tactics in countries like Germany, where security concerns often overshadow broader humanitarian considerations.

Despite Pakistan’s historic generosity, the country has faced criticism for its recent deportation policy. Ironically, much of this criticism comes from nations that have done far less to support Afghan refugees. Countries like Germany, which have deported asylum seekers with relatively little pushback, have largely escaped the level of scrutiny Pakistan has received. Criticism has also come from Afghans, like-minded Indian commentators, and a few human rights advocates.

However, these critiques often overlook the immense burden Pakistan has borne for over four decades. Unlike many Western nations, which have deported far fewer refugees, Pakistan’s actions follow years of providing unparalleled support to Afghan communities.

The contrast between Germany’s and Pakistan’s approaches to Afghan refugees is stark. Germany’s deportations reflect a nation struggling with security pressures, public opinion, and political pragmatism. In contrast, Pakistan’s commitment to Afghan refugees has been defined by tolerance and integration, even under challenging circumstances. The recent shift in Pakistan’s policy is not a retreat from this commitment but a reflection of its need to manage its refugee population in a way that preserves national security and economic stability.

Ultimately, Pakistan’s decision to deport illegal immigrants reflects a careful balancing act between humanitarianism and national security. After decades of hosting millions of Afghan refugees, Pakistan’s new policy is about regulation, not abandonment. In this context, the criticism Pakistan has faced seems misplaced, especially when compared to the actions of nations like Germany. While both countries are grappling with similar challenges in managing Afghan immigration, Pakistan’s approach is thoughtful regulation, shaped by decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complex dynamics at play.