QUETTA: Afghan musicians, singers and artists staged a protest in front of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees office, expressing serious concerns over Pakistan’s decision to expel illegal foreign nationals, including those from Afghanistan.

They were carrying musical instruments, banners and placards as they chanted slogans.

When contacted by Dawn, Humera Karim, an official of the UNHCR Quetta office, confirmed a group of Afghan artists had gathered to express their reservations on the issue.

“The UNHCR officials did their counselling regarding their concerns, after which they returned.”

Ahmed Shah Shadi, a Pashto singer, said the artists may not face any threat to life once repatriated back to their home country, but they will be jobless as music is banned in the country.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2023