Exclusive Commentary by KHANA
Tannaz Karimi, M.A. in Political Science
– Over the past four decades, Iran has hosted millions of Afghan migrants. However, following recent developments, approximately 250,000 to 300,000 have left the country. This trend can be analyzed within communitarian theories—especially Michael Walzer’s perspective—which argues that accepting migrants must align with citizens’ consent and the ability to guarantee equal rights.
– Given Iran’s current economic and social conditions and widespread public dissatisfaction, the government has concluded that continuing to host large numbers of migrants—especially undocumented ones—is not feasible without ensuring justice. Thus, deporting some migrants is not considered a violation of moral responsibility but rather a measure to safeguard national security and social cohesion.
– Although Afghan migrants could have been a valuable labor force, their lack of equal rights turned their presence into a source of injustice. From political and social standpoints, the government’s decision to regulate migration is defensible.
You can read the full text in SNN Website
