Afghan refugees in the Soviet Union

Afghan refugees in the Soviet Union primarily include those fleeing instability and conflict in Afghanistan, especially during the Soviet-Afghan War (1979–1989). Many sought safety by crossing into Soviet territory, either temporarily or permanently, especially in border regions like Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, which were Soviet republics at the time. These refugees faced complex circumstances, balancing their safety with narrowly avoiding repatriation or violence. Over the years, some stayed, becoming part of local communities, while others eventually migrated onward to countries like Iran, Pakistan, or Europe. Their presence highlights the regional impact of Afghanistan’s ongoing conflicts.