From Shelter to Survival: Exploring the Informal Economic Roles of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan and the Implications of Their Repatriation
Author: Muhammad Mohtasim, Maham Farooq, Sadia
Abstract
Long stay of Afghan refugees in Pakistan has had a significant impact on the informal economy of the country. Many worked as vital employees in industries including transportation, agriculture, and construction. However, these labor-intensive industries have been impacted by large-scale returns since the government’s 2023 policy shift toward refugee repatriation. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study looks at the socioeconomic effects of the refugees’ abrupt departure as well as their past economic integration using both qualitative content analysis and quantitative workforce data. Results show that the departure of Afghan refugees has caused supply chain disruptions, wage inflation, labour shortages, and decreased productivity in several important industries. The study draws attention to the conflict between the refugees’ political marginalization and their economic importance.
Keywords
Afghan refugees, informal economy, labor shortages, repatriation impacts, Pakistan,
economic disruption.
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DOI: 10.52279/jlss.07.03.177192 | 177-192 | PDF