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Refugee Cities: How Afghans Changed Urban Pakistan

Dwight Blair

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The presence of Afghan refugees in Pakistan has had a profound impact on the country's urban landscape. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, millions of Afghans have fled to Pakistan, and many have settled in urban areas. This influx of refugees has led to a number of challenges, but it has also brought new opportunities and perspectives to Pakistani cities.

One of the most visible impacts of Afghan refugees on Pakistani cities has been the growth of informal settlements. These settlements, which are often located on the outskirts of cities, are home to a large number of Afghan refugees. Informal settlements are often overcrowded and lack basic amenities, but they also provide a sense of community for refugees who have been displaced from their homes.

Refugee Cities: How Afghans Changed Urban Pakistan

by Liza Lucky

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	363 pages

In addition to informal settlements, Afghan refugees have also had a significant impact on the formal economy of Pakistani cities. Many Afghan refugees have started businesses, and they have also found employment in a variety of sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and retail. The presence of Afghan refugees has also led to the development of new markets and industries, such as the Afghan food industry.

The presence of Afghan refugees has also had a significant impact on the social and cultural fabric of Pakistani cities. Afghan refugees have brought with them their own unique culture and traditions, and they have also influenced Pakistani culture in a number of ways. For example, Afghan food has become increasingly popular in Pakistan, and Afghan music and dance are now common in Pakistani cities.

The presence of Afghan refugees in Pakistan has been a complex and challenging issue, but it has also brought new opportunities and perspectives to Pakistani cities. Refugee Cities: How Afghans Changed Urban Pakistan provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities that have arisen from the presence of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the impact of migration and displacement on urban areas.

About the Author

Dr. Omarudin Ahmad is a Lecturer in the Department of Geography at the University of Manchester. His research interests include migration, displacement, and urban planning.

Reviews

"Refugee Cities is a groundbreaking book that provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of Afghan refugees on the urban landscape of Pakistan. The book is well-researched and well-written, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in the impact of migration and displacement on urban areas." - Professor David Satterthwaite, University of London

"Refugee Cities is a timely and important book that sheds light on the complex and challenging issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities that have arisen from the presence of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in the impact of migration and displacement on urban areas." - Dr. Khalid Koser, World Bank