Investigating the Living Conditions of Afghan migrants in Iran, Challenges and Solutions.

Abstract

This study examines the economic and social conditions of Afghan migrants residing in Iran, focusing on their access to education and healthcare services, as well as their legal and residency status. In addition, the research aims to propose strategies that support the sustainable reintegration of these migrants upon their return to Afghanistan.

An applied research design was adopted, using a descriptive-analytical approach combined with a survey-based methodology. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale and analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistical techniques, particularly mean analysis, were employed to assess the migrants’ living conditions.

The findings reveal that Afghan migrants in Iran face generally unfavorable living circumstances, with an overall mean score of 2.506. The most critical challenge identified is the high cost of living compared to Iranian citizens, with a mean score of 4.09. In contrast, the least significant issue reported was insufficient income to meet living expenses, which received a mean score of 1.54.

Based on these findings, the study recommends strategic interventions to improve the reintegration outcomes of returning Afghan migrants and to reduce the likelihood of re-migration. Key recommendations include: the creation of sustainable employment opportunities; strengthening of social rights; expansion of access to education and healthcare services; targeted investments in the productive, service, and agricultural sectors; enhancement of economic infrastructure; and the provision of financial support and resettlement assistance.