Distant Dreams: Understanding the aspirations of Afghan returnees

This report is based on 56 in-depth interviews with former Afghan migrants and refugees who have returned from Iran, Pakistan and Europe. The research reveals returnees’ aspirations and hopes for their future, including psychosocial challenges when reintegrating and how those suffering from more severe psychosocial conditions after return have also considered re-migration as a solution. The report provides recommendations to humanitarian and development actors, such as prioritising psychosocial assistance in reintegration programming, allowing returnees to function in their environment by restoring a sense of agency, and rethinking categorical approaches to reintegration aid. The report was commissioned and led by MMC Asia and carried out by Seefar.