THE RESILIENCE OF THE MUTED VOICES OF AFGHAN REFUGEES: CONSENT AND CONSULTATION IN THE REPATRIATION PROCESS

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of the life experiences of Afghan refugees currently residing in Sweden, with a particular focus on their participation in the repatriation proceedings in Pakistan. The paper analyses the durable solution approach to their resettlement and the repatriation process. The preceding reintegration programme is beset with complexities; however, the specifics of their involvement in the resettlement process are subjected to rigorous examination. This study employed an ethnographic approach to examine the consultation and consent of Afghan refugees regarding resettlement and repatriation. The research was conducted within the Afghan community located in Stockholm, Sweden. The roles of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Government of Pakistan (GOP) were analysed through a review of academic literature and the conduct of field studies with the Afghan community. It was determined that Afghan refugees are being overlooked with regard to their entitlement to participate in the resettlement process.