UN-Habitat reports 6 million refugees returned to Afghanistan in three years

AI digestMimile.ai EditorialAugust 28, 2026 at 02:38 PM

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UN-Habitat reports 6 million refugees returned to Afghanistan in three years

More than 6 million refugees and migrants have returned to Afghanistan over the past three years, according to UN-Habitat. The mass return is straining housing, infrastructure, and basic services in cities and settlements. The organization is implementing projects in Herat, Farah, Kunduz, and Baghlan to support reintegration.

Key Facts

More than 6 million refugees and migrants have returned to Afghanistan over the past three years, according to UN-Habitat.
The WAHDAT project in Herat and Farah provinces aims to reach about 650,000 people by December 2027.
The PAIDAAR project in Kunduz and Baghlan provinces includes housing repairs for 800 families.
UN-Habitat emphasizes that humanitarian aid alone is insufficient for sustainable reintegration of millions of returnees.

Mass Return Strain

The return of over 6 million people has overwhelmed local infrastructure in many Afghan cities and settlements. Many returnees are settling in informal areas with limited access to water, healthcare, and other essential services. UN-Habitat's July report, Durable Solutions Programming in Afghanistan, identifies housing and employment as key challenges for returnees. The organization advocates developing existing settlements rather than creating isolated camps for returnees.

Reintegration Projects

The WAHDAT project, implemented with IOM, UNDP, and UNHCR, runs until December 2027 and targets about 650,000 people in Herat and Farah. WAHDAT plans to repair 880 homes for vulnerable families and improve roads, drainage, and water supply systems. The PAIDAAR project in Kunduz and Baghlan includes housing repairs for 800 families and training in climate-resilient construction. UN-Habitat notes that women are particularly vulnerable in the return context and includes support for economic initiatives and safe spaces.

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UN-Habitat reports 6 million refugees returned to Afghanistan in three years

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UN-Habitat reports 6 million refugees returned to Afghanistan in three years

Key Facts

Mass Return Strain

Reintegration Projects

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