Latest news with #RozaOtunbayeva
Scoop
5 days ago
- Politics
- Scoop
Unprecedented Afghan Returns Are ‘A Test Of Our Collective Humanity'
16 July 2025 Roza Otunbayeva, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, made the appeal during a visit to the Islam Qala border crossing with Iran on Tuesday where she witnessed the daily influx of tens of thousands of returnees. She also met returnee families, aid partners and regional de facto officials. Alarm bells should be ringing ' What should be a positive homecoming moment for families who fled conflict decades ago is instead marked by exhaustion, trauma, and profound uncertainty,' said Ms. Otunbayeva, who also heads the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). 'The sheer volume of returns – many abrupt, many involuntary – should be setting off alarm bells across the global community,' she added. ' It is a test of our collective humanity. Afghanistan, already grappling with drought, and a chronic humanitarian crisis, cannot absorb this shock alone.' Local communities overstretched Since January, more than 1.3 million have been largely compelled to head back to Afghanistan - a country where 70 per cent of the population lives in poverty. Women and children face the gravest risks, UNAMA said, as they are returning not only to dire economic hardships but to a context where their access to basic services and social protections remains severely constrained. The UN has repeatedly highlighted the assault on women's rights under Taliban rule, including bans affecting higher education, employment and freedom of movement. Reintegration support critical The returns are happening at a time when humanitarian operations remain woefully underfunded, forcing agonising choices between food, shelter, and safe passage. Ms. Otunbayeva also underscored the critical need for immediate reintegration assistance as initial evidence shows that stabilising return communities requires urgent livelihood programmes and community infrastructure investments. She warned that without swift interventions, remittance losses, labour market pressures, and cyclical migration will lead to devastating consequences. These could include the further destabilization of both returnee and host populations, renewed displacement, mass onward movement, and risks to regional stability. 'We cannot afford indifference' She urged donors, development partners, and regional governments not to turn away and abandon Afghan returnees. 'What we are witnessing are the direct consequences of unmet global responsibilities,' she said. 'We must act now – with resources, with coordination, and with resolve.' Meanwhile, the UN in Afghanistan is calling for an integrated approach that resources humanitarian needs while scaling up assistance in areas of return. At the same time, regional dialogue – including with Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asian states – must be prioritized to halt disorderly returns and uphold the principle of voluntary, dignified and safe repatriation. 'Afghanistan's stability hinges on shared responsibility: We cannot afford indifference,' said Ms. Otunbayeva. 'The cost of inaction will be measured in lives lost and conflicts reignited.'
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The scale of Afghans returning from Iran is overwhelming, says UN official
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The pace and scale of Afghans returning from Iran are overwhelming already fragile support systems, a senior U.N. official warned Tuesday, with tens of thousands of people crossing the border daily exhausted and traumatized, relying on humanitarian aid. So far this year, more than 1.4 million people have returned or been forced to return to Afghanistan, including over 1 million from Iran. Iran and Pakistan in 2023 launched separate campaigns to expel foreigners they said were living in the country illegally. They set deadlines and threatened them with deportation if they didn't leave. The two governments deny targeting Afghans, who have fled their homeland over the decades to escape war, poverty or Taliban rule. The U.N. special representative for Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, called for immediate international support for Afghanistan following a visit to the Islam Qala border crossing in western Herat province near Iran. The 'sheer volume of returns —many abrupt, many involuntary,' should be setting off alarm bells across the global community, Otunbayeva said. 'Without swift interventions, remittance losses, labor market pressures and cyclical migration will lead to devastating consequences such as the further destabilization of both returnee and host populations, renewed displacement, mass onward movement, and risks to regional stability,' she said. Returns from Iran peaked in June following a 20 March government deadline requiring all 'undocumented' Afghans to leave. The U.N. migration agency recorded more than 28,000 people crossing back into Afghanistan on June 25. Afghanistan is a 'forgotten crisis' Most Afghans depend on humanitarian assistance to survive. But deep funding cuts are worsening the situation, with aid agencies and nongovernmental organizations forced to cut education and health care programs. Nicole van Batenburg, from the International Federation of the Red Cross, said Afghan children returning from Iran are developing scabies, fever and other illnesses because of deteriorating conditions at the border and the hot weather. Her colleagues were reuniting hundreds of children daily who got separated from their parents. People lost their belongings and documents in the chaos of hasty exits. Most were only able to take a few suitcases with them, and some were now using their luggage as makeshift furniture. 'Afghanistan is an unseen crisis, and there are so many crises going on at this moment in the world that it seems to be forgotten,' van Batenburg told The Associated Press by phone from the border. 'The problems and the challenges are immense. We're only talking about the situation here at the border, but these people have to return to some areas where they can live longer and where they can rebuild their lives.' Last week, the Norwegian Refugee Council said many of its staff were hosting returning families in their homes. Authorities were doing their best to mobilize the few resources they had, but local systems were not equipped to cope with 'such tremendous' needs. ___ Follow the AP's global migration coverage at
Asharq Al-Awsat
6 days ago
- Health
- Asharq Al-Awsat
The Scale of Afghans Returning from Iran is Overwhelming, Says UN Official
The pace and scale of Afghans returning from Iran are overwhelming already fragile support systems, a senior UN official warned Tuesday, with tens of thousands of people crossing the border daily exhausted and traumatized, relying on humanitarian aid. So far this year, more than 1.4 million people have returned or been forced to return to Afghanistan, including over 1 million from Iran. Iran and Pakistan in 2023 launched separate campaigns to expel foreigners they said were living in the country illegally. They set deadlines and threatened them with deportation if they didn't leave. The two governments deny targeting Afghans, who have fled their homeland over the decades to escape war, poverty or Taliban rule, The AP news reported. The UN special representative for Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, called for immediate international support for Afghanistan following a visit to the Islam Qala border crossing in western Herat province near Iran. The 'sheer volume of returns —many abrupt, many involuntary,' should be setting off alarm bells across the global community, Otunbayeva said. 'Without swift interventions, remittance losses, labor market pressures and cyclical migration will lead to devastating consequences such as the further destabilization of both returnee and host populations, renewed displacement, mass onward movement, and risks to regional stability,' she said. Returns from Iran peaked in June following a 20 March government deadline requiring all 'undocumented' Afghans to leave. The UN migration agency recorded more than 28,000 people crossing back into Afghanistan on June 25. Afghanistan is a 'forgotten crisis' Most Afghans depend on humanitarian assistance to survive. But deep funding cuts are worsening the situation, with aid agencies and nongovernmental organizations forced to cut education and health care programs. Nicole van Batenburg, from the International Federation of the Red Cross, said Afghan children returning from Iran are developing scabies, fever and other illnesses because of deteriorating conditions at the border and the hot weather. Her colleagues were reuniting hundreds of children daily who got separated from their parents. People lost their belongings and documents in the chaos of hasty exits. Most were only able to take a few suitcases with them, and some were now using their luggage as makeshift furniture. 'Afghanistan is an unseen crisis, and there are so many crises going on at this moment in the world that it seems to be forgotten,' van Batenburg told The Associated Press by phone from the border. 'The problems and the challenges are immense. We're only talking about the situation here at the border, but these people have to return to some areas where they can live longer and where they can rebuild their lives.' Last week, the Norwegian Refugee Council said many of its staff were hosting returning families in their homes. Authorities were doing their best to mobilize the few resources they had, but local systems were not equipped to cope with 'such tremendous' needs.
Euronews
21-05-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Termez Dialogue seeks new model for Central and South Asian relations
From Monday to Wednesday, Uzbekistan's historic city of Termez will host the inaugural meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, bringing together a wide and diverse range of participants from nearly every part of the world. Focusing on 'Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," it will include representatives of foreign ministries, chambers of commerce and industry, heads of international and regional organisations, as well as distinguished scholars and policy experts from leading research institutions and think tanks. It is essential to highlight that the Termez Dialogue is not an isolated initiative. Rather, it is a natural and strategic continuation of Uzbekistan's long-term efforts to deepen the connectivity between Central and South Asia. In July 2021, at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan hosted the High-Level International Conference 'Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity – Challenges and Opportunities.' A year later, building on the momentum of that conference, Uzbekistan led the adoption of a special resolution by the United Nations General Assembly titled 'Strengthening Connectivity between Central and South Asia.' This resolution laid the conceptual groundwork for enhanced engagement and cooperation between the two regions. The forum in Termez serves as the practical embodiment of that resolution. It is designed to become a standing platform for dialogue — one that will define future pathways for interregional integration, and contribute to the maintenance of peace, security, and long-term stability across the vast Eurasian space. The high level of participants and the multilateral format of the Termez Dialogue are clear indicators of its global relevance and timeliness. Notable guests include Roza Otunbayeva, Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, Kakha Imnadze, Head of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia and Sabina Machl, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan. Senior officials from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, and other major international bodies will also participate. In addition, the Forum will feature experts from some of the world's most respected think tanks, including the Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), the Central Asia and Caucasus Institute (US), the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation (Finland), the Berghof Foundation (Germany), the Indian Council of World Affairs, the Observer Research Foundation (India), the Pakistan Institute for Strategic Studies, and the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, among others. In a world increasingly marked by fragmentation and crises, fostering connectivity, cooperation, mutual trust, and open, constructive dialogue is not merely idealistic — it is essential. Strengthening regional linkages creates a foundation for identifying mutually acceptable solutions to shared challenges and enhances our collective ability to counter threats and disruptions. Hosting the forum in Termez is especially symbolic. Situated at the confluence of Central and South Asia, Termez occupies a critical node of interregional connectivity. For centuries, Termez has served as a crossroads of civilisations and a centre for intercultural, interfaith, and cross-border dialogue. The traditions of Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam all took root and flourished in this city. It was once a meeting point of ancient empires, including the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms. Under the rule of the Temurid dynasty, Termez reached its zenith as a center of administration, trade, and scientific inquiry. Thanks to its strategic location, Termez historically secured its status as a vital transit hub. Long before the Silk Road became famous, the ancient northern trade route known as Uttarapatha connected India with Central Asia, passing directly through Termez. The city played a critical role in safeguarding the main crossing over the Amu Darya River, supporting countless caravans, and emerging as a thriving regional trade centre. Today, Termez is undergoing a remarkable period of modernisation, reclaiming its historical role as a bridge between Central and South Asia. It now proudly serves as the southern gateway of Uzbekistan. Year by year, new infrastructure projects transform the city, creating favourable conditions for strengthening regional connectivity. For example, last year, the 36-hectare Airtom International Trade Center was opened in Termez. Citizens of Pakistan and Afghanistan can stay visa-free for up to 15 days in the centre. The complex houses production facilities, retail shops, restaurants, hotels, clinics, and advanced training centres. This project plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and the export of industrial and consumer goods produced by businesses in Afghanistan, Pakistan and other neighbouring countries. The Termez-Cargo Centre, an international multifunctional transport and logistics hub, also plays a critical humanitarian role. It serves as a key intermediary for the delivery of international aid, not only to Afghanistan but also to Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan. Since 2021, over 144,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid — including essential food supplies such as flour and grain, medicines, tents, solar lamps, and other necessities — have been dispatched through this hub. The agenda of the Termez Dialogue addresses a wide range of topics, from trade and economic cooperation to cultural and humanitarian collaboration, as well as pressing issues of regional security. At the heart of these discussions is the economic agenda, which remains the cornerstone and driving force behind cooperation between Central and South Asia. The growing interest in South Asia is no coincidence—it is the fastest-growing region in the world. In 2024, South Asia's GDP reached $4.9 trillion, accounting for approximately 4.5% of global output. If the current pace of economic development continues, South Asia is well-positioned to take a leading role in shaping Asia's economic future. According to the Boao Forum for Asia's Economic Outlook and Integration Progress in Asia – 2025, South Asia's economy is projected to grow by 5.9% this year, outpacing Western Asia (2.9%), Eastern Asia (4.3%), and even Central Asia (5%). Yet, despite this proximity and immense economic potential, trade between Central and South Asia remains modest. Annual trade turnover stands at just $5 billion — a fraction of the $55 billion in trade between Central Asia and the much more distant European Union. To unlock the full potential of this relationship, it is crucial to simplify trade procedures, establish diversified and efficient transport corridors, and expand regional energy infrastructure. Attracting mutual investments for major infrastructure projects, developing the digital economy, and fostering innovation will also play a vital role. Expanding trade and economic ties depend directly on improving transportation connectivity. However, current transport and logistics routes between Central and South Asia remain underdeveloped, and existing infrastructure cannot support the growing demand for cross-border trade. This remains a significant obstacle to deeper economic ties. For the landlocked nations of Central Asia, diversifying trade and transport routes is a strategic imperative. Creating new pathways will provide a powerful boost to regional economic growth. In this context, the timely implementation of the Trans-Afghan Corridor has become a top priority. This project holds strategic importance not only for Central Asia but also for South Asia. Once completed, it will offer the shortest access to the seaports of the Indian Ocean, connecting South Asia with the markets of Central Asia, Russia, China, and Europe. Encouragingly, trade volumes through this corridor are already on the rise. Between 2021 and 2024, the volume of cargo transported along the Trans-Afghan Corridor — with Uzbekistan's active participation — more than doubled, growing from 1.8 million tonnes to 4 million tonnes. In this way, strengthening connectivity will create a true win-win scenario. Most importantly, it will provide a powerful impetus for building a unified regional space, laying the foundation for lasting peace, sustainable development, and long-term stability across the region. All nations stand to benefit from this shared vision. In this spirit, the Termez Dialogue will offer a new paradigm for relations between Central and South Asia — one built not on conflict and confrontation, but on the principles of cooperation and shared prosperity. It is expected that the Termez Dialogue will conclude with the adoption of a joint communiqué, reaffirming the shared commitment of all participants to strengthen trust and cooperation for the collective good of Central and South Asia. Dr Eldor Aripov is the First Deputy Secretary of the Security Council under the President of Uzbekistan and Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The Netherlands' Central Bank (DNB) has advised citizens to keep enough cash on hand to last them three days in case of disaster or emergency, citing rising geopolitical tensions and cyber threats that could jeopardise the country's payment system. Citizens should keep €70 per adult and €30 per child in cash as a precautionary measure, the bank warned this week. The money should be enough to cover necessary expenses for 72 hours "such as for water, food, medicine, and transportation", it said. "Think of a power failure, a technical disruption at your bank or the Wi-Fi going down. Then you might not be able to pay the way you are used to. But paying with cash is almost always possible," the DNB's advisory said. The recommendation "was prompted by increased geopolitical tensions and cyber threats that could challenge our payment system", it added. In addition to holding hard cash, the DNB said people should consider having a debit card and using contactless with their phone or smartwatch. The bank's warning follows a massive power outage that hit Spain and Portugal on 28 April. The causes of the blackout are still being investigated. Card payment systems went offline and ATMs were out of order, meaning that many people in the two countries had to rely on cash to buy water, food, torches and battery-powered radios to stay up-to-date with the news. The European Commission released a preparedness plan in March that encouraged the public to maintain sufficient supplies for at least 72 hours in case of emergencies such as natural disasters or conflict. The plan listed items including cash, medication, a power bank and a radio.
Euronews
21-05-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Termez Dialogue seeks new model for Central and South Asias relations
From Monday to Wednesday, Uzbekistan's historic city of Termez will host the inaugural meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, bringing together a wide and diverse range of participants from nearly every part of the world. Focusing on 'Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," it will include representatives of foreign ministries, chambers of commerce and industry, heads of international and regional organisations, as well as distinguished scholars and policy experts from leading research institutions and think tanks. It is essential to highlight that the Termez Dialogue is not an isolated initiative. Rather, it is a natural and strategic continuation of Uzbekistan's long-term efforts to deepen the connectivity between Central and South Asia. In July 2021, at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan hosted the High-Level International Conference 'Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity – Challenges and Opportunities.' A year later, building on the momentum of that conference, Uzbekistan led the adoption of a special resolution by the United Nations General Assembly titled 'Strengthening Connectivity between Central and South Asia.' This resolution laid the conceptual groundwork for enhanced engagement and cooperation between the two regions. The forum in Termez serves as the practical embodiment of that resolution. It is designed to become a standing platform for dialogue — one that will define future pathways for interregional integration, and contribute to the maintenance of peace, security, and long-term stability across the vast Eurasian space. The high level of participants and the multilateral format of the Termez Dialogue are clear indicators of its global relevance and timeliness. Notable guests include Roza Otunbayeva, Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, Kakha Imnadze, Head of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia and Sabina Machl, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan. Senior officials from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, and other major international bodies will also participate. In addition, the Forum will feature experts from some of the world's most respected think tanks, including the Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), the Central Asia and Caucasus Institute (US), the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation (Finland), the Berghof Foundation (Germany), the Indian Council of World Affairs, the Observer Research Foundation (India), the Pakistan Institute for Strategic Studies, and the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, among others. In a world increasingly marked by fragmentation and crises, fostering connectivity, cooperation, mutual trust, and open, constructive dialogue is not merely idealistic — it is essential. Strengthening regional linkages creates a foundation for identifying mutually acceptable solutions to shared challenges and enhances our collective ability to counter threats and disruptions. Hosting the forum in Termez is especially symbolic. Situated at the confluence of Central and South Asia, Termez occupies a critical node of interregional connectivity. For centuries, Termez has served as a crossroads of civilisations and a centre for intercultural, interfaith, and cross-border dialogue. The traditions of Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam all took root and flourished in this city. It was once a meeting point of ancient empires, including the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms. Under the rule of the Temurid dynasty, Termez reached its zenith as a center of administration, trade, and scientific inquiry. Thanks to its strategic location, Termez historically secured its status as a vital transit hub. Long before the Silk Road became famous, the ancient northern trade route known as Uttarapatha connected India with Central Asia, passing directly through Termez. The city played a critical role in safeguarding the main crossing over the Amu Darya River, supporting countless caravans, and emerging as a thriving regional trade centre. Today, Termez is undergoing a remarkable period of modernisation, reclaiming its historical role as a bridge between Central and South Asia. It now proudly serves as the southern gateway of Uzbekistan. Year by year, new infrastructure projects transform the city, creating favourable conditions for strengthening regional connectivity. For example, last year, the 36-hectare Airtom International Trade Center was opened in Termez. Citizens of Pakistan and Afghanistan can stay visa-free for up to 15 days in the centre. The complex houses production facilities, retail shops, restaurants, hotels, clinics, and advanced training centres. This project plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and the export of industrial and consumer goods produced by businesses in Afghanistan, Pakistan and other neighbouring countries. The Termez-Cargo Centre, an international multifunctional transport and logistics hub, also plays a critical humanitarian role. It serves as a key intermediary for the delivery of international aid, not only to Afghanistan but also to Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan. Since 2021, over 144,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid — including essential food supplies such as flour and grain, medicines, tents, solar lamps, and other necessities — have been dispatched through this hub. The agenda of the Termez Dialogue addresses a wide range of topics, from trade and economic cooperation to cultural and humanitarian collaboration, as well as pressing issues of regional security. At the heart of these discussions is the economic agenda, which remains the cornerstone and driving force behind cooperation between Central and South Asia. The growing interest in South Asia is no coincidence—it is the fastest-growing region in the world. In 2024, South Asia's GDP reached $4.9 trillion, accounting for approximately 4.5% of global output. If the current pace of economic development continues, South Asia is well-positioned to take a leading role in shaping Asia's economic future. According to the Boao Forum for Asia's Economic Outlook and Integration Progress in Asia – 2025, South Asia's economy is projected to grow by 5.9% this year, outpacing Western Asia (2.9%), Eastern Asia (4.3%), and even Central Asia (5%). Yet, despite this proximity and immense economic potential, trade between Central and South Asia remains modest. Annual trade turnover stands at just $5 billion — a fraction of the $55 billion in trade between Central Asia and the much more distant European Union. To unlock the full potential of this relationship, it is crucial to simplify trade procedures, establish diversified and efficient transport corridors, and expand regional energy infrastructure. Attracting mutual investments for major infrastructure projects, developing the digital economy, and fostering innovation will also play a vital role. Expanding trade and economic ties depend directly on improving transportation connectivity. However, current transport and logistics routes between Central and South Asia remain underdeveloped, and existing infrastructure cannot support the growing demand for cross-border trade. This remains a significant obstacle to deeper economic ties. For the landlocked nations of Central Asia, diversifying trade and transport routes is a strategic imperative. Creating new pathways will provide a powerful boost to regional economic growth. In this context, the timely implementation of the Trans-Afghan Corridor has become a top priority. This project holds strategic importance not only for Central Asia but also for South Asia. Once completed, it will offer the shortest access to the seaports of the Indian Ocean, connecting South Asia with the markets of Central Asia, Russia, China, and Europe. Encouragingly, trade volumes through this corridor are already on the rise. Between 2021 and 2024, the volume of cargo transported along the Trans-Afghan Corridor — with Uzbekistan's active participation — more than doubled, growing from 1.8 million tonnes to 4 million tonnes. In this way, strengthening connectivity will create a true win-win scenario. Most importantly, it will provide a powerful impetus for building a unified regional space, laying the foundation for lasting peace, sustainable development, and long-term stability across the region. All nations stand to benefit from this shared vision. In this spirit, the Termez Dialogue will offer a new paradigm for relations between Central and South Asia — one built not on conflict and confrontation, but on the principles of cooperation and shared prosperity. It is expected that the Termez Dialogue will conclude with the adoption of a joint communiqué, reaffirming the shared commitment of all participants to strengthen trust and cooperation for the collective good of Central and South Asia. Dr Eldor Aripov is the First Deputy Secretary of the Security Council under the President of Uzbekistan and Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
