A Historical Analysis of the Socio-Economic Implications of Afghan Refugees for Pakistan

Abstract

Numerous studies highlight the economic cost and security risk posed by Afghan refugees in Pakistan. On the other hand, little research has been done to determine if they pose a threat or an opportunity. It's crucial to understand that, despite the perception that they pose a threat, migrants can also offer economic and political opportunities as well as they have a constructive influence on social structures. In order to fully represent the lived experiences, viewpoints, and narratives of those impacted by the problem, qualitative methodologies are essential. Qualitative research can provide insight into the social and cultural dynamics of refugee integration, community attitudes, the difficulties Afghan refugees encounter in accessing services, and the efficacy of governmental policies and humanitarian interventions in the context of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The majority of papers focus on the issues that refugees bring to their new country, while governments hardly draw attention to the advantages that refugees could have for their own citizens or the global community. This research paper examines the potential and risks that Afghan refugees in Pakistan present. It tackles with the construct of the psychological approach of the natives to perceive the refugees as a threat for their economy as well as responsible for all social evils prevalent in their society. It finds that lack of solid governmental policies and actions created problems in terms of the socio-political assimilation of the refugees. The study recommends that legal framework for handling this segment of the populace must be revised rationally by the federal government.