MHE joins open letter calling for protection of Afghan refugees’ mental health

At the same time, and partially as a result of the flaws and injustices in the EU asylum system, an unknown number of Afghans, including vulnerable groups like unaccompanied minors, families with children and survivors of traumatic events, are trapped in transit countries in uncertain, dangerous conditions which degrade their human dignity and presents a risk for their lives and health, including mental health. The transit countries and communities do not offer, and often do not have the capacity for adequate help and support as well as durable solutions for protection. All this further increases the suffering and negatively impacts the physical and mental health of Afghan nationals on the move. The current situation in their country of origin only adds to all these adversities due to fear of being forcibly returned and/or fear and concern for the lives and safety of the loved ones that are left behind. The impact of the suffered or witnessed traumatic events, if not addressed, can be devastating and long-term.