Afghans third among asylum seekers in Russia in 2025

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghan nationals ranked third among asylum seekers in Russia in 2025, with 281 Afghans registering asylum applications during the year, according to newly released figures cited by Russian state media.

Ukrainians remained the largest group of asylum applicants, filing 3,332 requests, a slight decline from the previous year but still the highest total. Syrian citizens ranked second, with 3,196 asylum applications recorded over the same period.

Reports indicate that many asylum applications submitted by Afghan nationals in Russia have been rejected over the past four years, underscoring the difficulties Afghans face in securing protection.

The figures highlight continued outward migration by Afghans as economic hardship and political uncertainty push people to seek refuge abroad.

Afghanistan continues to grapple with severe humanitarian challenges, including widespread poverty, high unemployment and limited access to basic services, prompting many families to look for safety and economic opportunities outside the country.

Security concerns, restrictions on rights and fears of persecution or retaliation have also contributed to displacement, leaving many Afghans uncertain about their future at home.

Analysts say migration pressures are likely to persist unless security conditions improve and meaningful economic and humanitarian relief is achieved.