ISLAMABAD Pakistan hosts the largest number of refugees today, 1.6 million, according to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).
The `total population of concern' added up to almost 2.5 million at the end of 2012. Refugees, according to the UNHCR definition, include individuals granted complementary forms of protection; or, those enjoying temporary protection. The refugee population also includes people in a refugee-like situation, The Khaleej Times Quoted.
Pakistan hosts the largest number of refugees in the world comprising mostly Afghans who have settled on Pakistani territory and living on a hand-to- mouth earning basis. The figure saw a drop as the US-led invasion into Afghanistan began but return rates have stabilised since then.
The UNHCR has been assisting in the return of these refugees through cash donations going up to $157 per person but many are not ready to leave in the near future.
According to the report on `Displaced Persons in the 21st Century', Pakistan hosted the largest number of refugees in relation to its economic capacity.
The number of asylum claims lodged in Pakistan came up to 4,000, while Kenya (the second biggest refugee base in the world) saw some 20,000 claims.
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