ISLAMABAD: Afghans face an unprecedented risk of human trafficking, exploitation, and forced labor as overlapping economic, humanitarian, and political crises deepen their vulnerability, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

In a joint statement marking World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the two UN agencies warned that the mass return of Afghans from neighboring countries, the collapse of the opium-based economy, severe cuts in humanitarian assistance, recurring natural disasters, and continued restrictions on women's and girls' rights have combined to create conditions in which traffickers can thrive.

The warning comes as the "World Migration Report 2026" identifies Afghanistan as one of the world's major displacement and migration contexts, with large cross-border movements to and from neighboring Iran and Pakistan.

The report highlights that prolonged instability, forced displacement, and limited livelihood opportunities continue to shape migration patterns, increasing protection risks for vulnerable populations.

Recent assessments paint a bleak picture for returnees. Only 11 % have regular employment or operate their own businesses, while more than half are unable to meet their basic living expenses.

Faced with mounting financial pressure, many families have been forced to borrow money, exposing them to debt bondage, forced labor in hazardous sectors such as brick kilns, agriculture, and mining, forced marriage, and even organ removal.

Polleak Ok Serei, UNODC Representative in Afghanistan, said, “The worsening conditions underscore the urgent need for stronger prevention measures and better identification of trafficking victims.”

IOM Afghanistan Chief of Mission Mihyung Park warned that the scale of migrant returns has overwhelmed the capacity of local communities to absorb them.

The agencies stressed that without sustained international support, expanded humanitarian assistance and greater access to safe employment opportunities, many Afghans may once again resort to dangerous and irregular migration routes, perpetuating a cycle of trafficking, exploitation and displacement.

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Human trafficking risks rise as Afghans face mounting crises, UN warns

Human trafficking risks rise as Afghans face mounting crises, UN warns