HRCP urges release of Afghan siblings detained in Chaman

LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is deeply concerned to learn that five Afghan siblings, three of whom are minors, have been arrested in Chaman while attempting to reunite with their mother, Zahra Ansari —an asylum seeker registered with the UNHCR — in Islamabad.

The HRCP said the siblings are at risk of deportation to Afghanistan, where the family, including two young, single women, could face punishment for travelling without a male guardian.

“We strongly urge the authorities to release the family and ensure their safe reunion with their mother in Islamabad, under Pakistan’s obligations under Article 9(1) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly as the UNHCR has already informed the government that it will take responsibility for the family,” the HRCP added.