Afghan Evacuation and Resettlement Efforts

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, many organizations have been at the forefront of the U.S. efforts to evacuate and resettle Afghan evacuees who are at risk due to their affiliations with U.S. forces and organizations. To date, they have successfully facilitated the evacuation of approximately 124,000 Afghans, with around 76,000 resettled in the United States. Despite these efforts, tens of thousands remain in Afghanistan or stranded in third countries, facing significant challenges and delays in the resettlement process. Reywat’s ongoing work aims to continue supporting the identification, documentation, evacuation, and integration of Afghan evacuees through a sustainable and scalable model.

Our primary objective has been and continues to be providing clear and actionable frameworks to contribute effectively to the humanitarian efforts surrounding Afghan evacuees. This includes identifying vulnerable individuals, assisting with documentation, coordinating safe transportation, providing both temporary and long-term housing and employment opportunities, and facilitating access to legal and social services.

Scope of Involvement

In our operations, we have focused on various stages of involvement, starting with the identification and eligibility of evacuees. We have established strong partnerships with NGOs and international organizations to ensure the accurate identification of those at risk. Our secure reporting mechanisms and targeted outreach to specific at-risk groups will be critical in identifying and documenting these individuals. We also plan to set up mobile documentation centres to help gather and secure necessary documents, such as proof of employment, identification, and threat letters, ensuring that all evacuees have the proper documentation needed for their journey.

Pre-Evacuation Preparation

Our pre-evacuation efforts will involve providing emergency preparedness training to evacuees, distributing emergency kits, and ensuring financial preparedness through cash disbursements and prepaid debit cards. We will also offer psychological support to help evacuees cope with the stresses of displacement. Additionally, we will facilitate legal preparedness, coordinate with local networks, and make special arrangements for individuals with unique needs, ensuring they are ready for evacuation.

Evacuation Coordination

We aim to focus our work on coordinating safe and organized evacuations and establishing centres in Afghanistan and key transit countries. We will reduce the chaos and danger associated with fleeing conflict zones by securing safe passage, arranging transportation, and maintaining clear communication channels with evacuees. Our efforts have included managing temporary safe havens and working closely with NGOs and private sector partners to ensure that all evacuees are transported safely from Afghanistan to their final destinations.

Post-Evacuation Support and Resettlement

Upon their arrival in the U.S., we have continued to support Afghan evacuees as they navigate the challenges of resettlement. We have established partnerships to provide immediate assistance, including temporary and long-term housing solutions, job placement, and vocational training opportunities. Additionally, we have facilitated access to legal and social services, addressed cultural and language barriers, and built robust community support networks to help evacuees integrate into their new environments.

Developing a Support Network

A comprehensive support network has been crucial in ensuring that Afghan evacuees receive the resources, community connections, and ongoing assistance needed for successful integration into U.S. society. We are the process of building partnerships with key organizations, created community-based support networks, and established legal and social services to assist evacuees. Furthermore, we have engaged the private sector and corporate partners to provide additional resources, expertise, and employment opportunities, which have been instrumental in supporting these individuals.

Advocacy and Policy Support

Our advocacy and policy support efforts have focused on ensuring that Afghan evacuees receive the protections and opportunities necessary for successful resettlement. We have actively lobbied for favorable legislation, engaged in international advocacy, and built grassroots movements to sustain pressure on policymakers. Our efforts have included advocating for the passage of the Afghan Adjustment Act, pushing for Temporary Protected Status for Afghan nationals, and engaging with international bodies to secure rights and resources for evacuees.

Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

We have implemented a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework to track the progress and impact of our efforts. This framework has allowed us to monitor the execution of activities, assess the effectiveness of our interventions, and ensure that our strategies remain responsive to the evolving needs of evacuees. We regularly collect data through surveys, interviews, and site visits, and provide transparent reporting to stakeholders, ensuring that our actions are both accountable and effective.

Our ongoing efforts have been part of larger efforts instrumental in providing comprehensive support to Afghan evacuees, addressing their needs from the moment they are identified in Afghanistan to their full integration into U.S. society. By meticulously planning and executing each phase of the resettlement process, we have ensured the safety, security, and opportunities for those who have risked their lives in support of U.S. missions. Our work not only reflects our commitment to these individuals but also reinforces the United States’ role as a compassionate and responsible global leader.