Iran Recognized by International Organization for Migration for Exceptional Support to Afghan Refugees

In recent discussions surrounding the plight of Afghan refugees, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has praised Iran’s commendable efforts in hosting and providing essential services to Afghan nationals. This recognition comes during the 76th annual session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), held from October 6 to 10 in Geneva, Switzerland.

During a meeting on the sidelines of the conference, IOM Senior Advisor Kim Eling met with Iran’s Deputy Interior Minister, Mohammad Bathaei. Eling expressed appreciation for Iran’s hospitality toward Afghan refugees, acknowledging the significant challenges posed by a decline in aid from donor nations. This situation is viewed as a major hurdle for the UN in continuing to advance its projects.

In response, Deputy Minister Bathaei emphasized that despite facing unilateral coercive sanctions, Iran has worked tirelessly to provide substantial services to foreign nationals. He urged donor countries to fulfill their responsibilities by allocating necessary aid to support ongoing projects in Iran.

The Iranian official’s agenda during the Geneva session included delivering a lecture, meeting with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, and engaging with Kamal Kishore, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction. These meetings aim to enhance collaboration and share insights on the challenges and solutions surrounding refugee management.

The Executive Committee of the High Commissioner’s Program (ExCom) convenes annually in Geneva to review and approve the UNHCR’s programs and budget. This platform allows for discussions on international protection and various pressing issues in partnership with intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.

Significant Trends in Afghan Migration

In August, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni revealed that over 1.2 million Afghan nationals, primarily undocumented migrants, have left Iran in the last year. The eastern borders of Khorasan Razavi province recorded the highest number of these departures.

Momeni clarified that Iran does not intend to deport documented and authorized refugees. Instead, he stated, “We are only deporting the two million Afghans who are illegally residing in Iran.” This assertion underscores Iran’s stance as a nation that supports refugees.

• Iran’s Commitment to Refugees: The country is currently hosting approximately six million foreign nationals.
• Recent Departures: Since the beginning of the current Iranian year (March 21), around 800,000 out of two million undocumented refugees have exited the country.
• Voluntary Returns: From March 21 to June 27, a total of 717,658 Afghans returned to Afghanistan, with over 80 percent choosing to leave voluntarily.

Momeni highlighted the contributions of Afghan nationals to Iran’s economy, stating, “These are honorable people who have contributed to the country’s production.” He reiterated that unauthorized refugees must follow legal procedures if they wish to remain in the country.

Impact of Illegal Migration

According to Nader Yar-Ahmadi, head of the National Organization for Migration, there have been no changes to the residency status or services provided to documented Afghan citizens living in Iran. In fact, as the number of illegal nationals decreases, documented refugees are expected to receive enhanced support.

Yar-Ahmadi noted, “The majority of these nationals are employees or students; we consider employment as a foundation for residency in our long-term planning.” He also pointed out that illegal migration poses numerous challenges, particularly in critical situations where such individuals may be viewed with suspicion.

• Economic and Social Impact: The presence of illegal migrants can adversely affect a nation’s economy, social dynamics, and security.
• Population Statistics: Global trends indicate that migrants typically account for a maximum of three percent of a country’s population.
• Projected Demographics: With Iran’s population expected to reach around 90 million next year, the migrant population could total around three million.

Currently, Iran is home to over 6.1 million foreign nationals, with expectations of gradual reductions in this number, as noted by Yar-Ahmadi. The Iranian government’s proactive measures and commitment to supporting refugees emphasize the importance of international cooperation in addressing the refugee crisis and ensuring the well-being of displaced individuals.

Through these ongoing efforts and discussions, Iran continues to advocate for a balanced approach to migration, emphasizing the need for responsible management and support from the international community.