New York, May 28, 2025—The Committee to Protect Journalists, alongside PEN International and 13 partner organizations, has issued a joint statement urging Pakistan’s government to immediately halt the arbitrary mass deportation of Afghan journalists and other nationals at risk of Taliban persecution.
The statement expresses grave concern over Pakistan’s “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan,” which was publicly announced on October 3, 2023. The plan has faced widespread criticism from local and international bodies, including the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Organization for Migration, which have called on Pakistan to uphold its international obligations and continue offering protection to at-risk Afghans.
The joint statement also appeals to the international community to provide safe and legal pathways for Afghan journalists, writers, artists, human rights defenders, and other vulnerable individuals seeking refuge from Taliban persecution due to their peaceful expression.
Read the full joint statement here.
This content originally appeared on Committee to Protect Journalists and was authored by CPJ Staff.