Tehran Hosts Key Meeting to Address Afghan Refugee Solutions: Core Group Unites for Change
On September 3, 2023, a significant meeting of the local core group for the Solution Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSAR) convened in Tehran. This meeting aimed to address the pressing issues surrounding Afghan refugees and explore collaborative solutions among participating nations and international organizations.
The meeting was co-chaired by Nader Yar-Ahmadi, head of the National Organization for Migration, and Mohammad Hassani Nejad Pirkouhi, Director-General for International Environmental and Sustainable Development Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to ISNA. Notably, the gathering saw participation from key figures such as:
- Stefan Priesner, Dutch Chargé d’affaires to Iran and head of the SSAR group
- UN Resident Coordinator in Iran
- Representatives from UNICEF, UNHCR, IOM, UNDP, WHO
- Embassy representatives from Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, Switzerland, Denmark, and South Korea
During his address, Yar-Ahmadi underscored Iran’s long-standing commitment to hosting Afghan refugees, which has spanned nearly five decades. He pointed out the significant influx of Afghan migrants in recent years, while also criticizing the insufficient support from the international community and SSAR member states.
In a similar vein, Hassani Nejad Pirkouhi emphasized Iran’s unparalleled humanitarian efforts in accommodating refugees. He noted that European countries and other members of the international community have not met their obligations under international refugee law. By adopting selective policies and implementing unilateral sanctions against Iran, these nations have adversely affected the situation for both refugees and host communities.
The UN resident representative elaborated on the commendable actions taken by Iran to manage the large refugee population residing within its borders. A notable proposal from the UNHCR representative included the idea of holding trilateral discussions involving Iran and Afghanistan. However, Iranian officials expressed a preference for quadrilateral talks that include Pakistan, emphasizing that trilateral discussions would necessitate enhanced coordination.
The Solutions Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSAR) was established in 2012 through collaboration between Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, with UNHCR’s support. This strategy advocates for a regional approach to addressing refugee needs, promoting the sharing of burdens and responsibilities at both regional and global levels. Key elements of the SSAR include:
- Enhancing the resilience of Afghan refugees
- Facilitating their coexistence with host communities
- Advocating for equitable responsibility-sharing by the international community, consistent with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR)
The SSAR serves as a regional framework for governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders, ensuring that host communities receive necessary support and that refugees can lead fulfilling lives.
In alignment with the SSAR’s objectives, a Local Core Group for the SSAR Support Platform was established in April 2021 during the inaugural meeting of the core group, which included the governments of Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. The initiative aims to identify priority areas of support for Iran as a host country for refugees.
Furthering its mission, UNHCR organized a virtual SSAR Support Platform meeting in 2022, chaired by the European Union. This meeting brought together core group members, donors, UN agencies, NGOs, and the Iranian government to better evaluate the needs of refugees, asylum-seekers, and host communities.
Iran also hosted the 8th meeting of the SSAR Quadripartite Steering Committee at the end of 2022. This meeting focused on assessing progress, addressing challenges, and outlining future steps for implementing the SSAR, highlighting Iran’s remarkable hospitality towards Afghan nationals over the years.
Looking ahead to 2024, the group is set to concentrate on maintaining and expanding protective frameworks and asylum spaces for all Afghans in Iran. Additionally, efforts will be dedicated to enhancing inclusive policies, promoting self-reliance, and ensuring durable solutions for Afghan refugees.
Through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, the SSAR aims to improve the lives of Afghan refugees while fostering a supportive environment in host countries like Iran.
By focusing on these key areas, stakeholders hope to create a comprehensive response to the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan refugees and ensure that their rights and needs are met effectively.
