UK Accused of ‘Freezing’ Afghan Family Relocations as Court Hears Legal Challenge

The United Kingdom government is facing legal scrutiny amid claims that the relocation of Afghan families approved for resettlement has effectively been halted, leaving many stranded in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

The issue was raised during a hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice, where lawyers argued that individuals eligible for relocation under British resettlement schemes are no longer being actively evacuated from Afghanistan.

The case involves two Afghan nationals, identified as FRY and BNM1 for security reasons, who have both been approved for relocation to the UK. Their legal representatives are challenging the Ministry of Defence over ongoing delays and a lack of clarity regarding their evacuation.

Barrister Tim Owen told the court that, based on current evidence, there appears to be a “freeze” on relocations from Afghanistan. He argued that applicants are facing a severe lack of information, with much of the process taking place behind closed doors and without the involvement of their legal teams.

The concerns come despite previous commitments by Defence Secretary John Healey, who had pledged that the UK would honour its obligations to Afghans who supported British operations. He had stated that all eligible individuals and their immediate families would be relocated.

However, recent statements from Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard suggest that while support may be provided to eligible Afghans in third countries such as Pakistan, evacuations directly from Afghanistan are not currently being prioritized.

The relocation process is part of the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP), introduced following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. The scheme was designed to assist Afghans who worked alongside British forces and may face reprisals.

Legal representatives highlighted that one of the claimants had applied to the ARAP program in 2021, received approval in 2024, and was confirmed for relocation in 2025. Despite this, he remains in Afghanistan awaiting evacuation.

The situation is further complicated by a major data breach involving the Ministry of Defence, which exposed the personal details of thousands of Afghan applicants. The breach, which affected around 18,700 individuals, raised serious concerns about the safety of those awaiting relocation.

Campaigners say the pace of evacuations has been far too slow, with hundreds of individuals and their families still trapped in Afghanistan or neighbouring countries. Many are believed to be at risk due to their association with British forces.

In response, the Ministry of Defence stated that it remains committed to relocating eligible Afghans and continues to process applications. Officials added that some individuals are being supported in third countries while awaiting final approval for entry into the UK.

The case highlights growing concerns over transparency, accountability, and the UK’s responsibility toward Afghan allies. With legal proceedings ongoing, the outcome could have significant implications for the future of the country’s resettlement policies and its handling of humanitarian commitments.

Courtesy: independent