US plans to close Afghan Relocation Coordination Office

The US State Department plans to close the Afghan Relocation Coordination Office, shifting its responsibilities amid organizational restructuring.

The U.S. Department of State has informed Congress of its intention to close the Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE). This office was responsible for managing the relocation of Afghans who assisted U.S. forces during the Afghanistan conflict.

Bloomberg reported on May 28th that this decision has sparked strong reactions from nonprofit organizations. These groups played a critical role during the U.S. withdrawal and Taliban takeover in 2021 by helping evacuate and support Afghan allies.

The closure was detailed in a letter to Congress outlining a reorganization plan within the State Department. A copy of the letter obtained by Bloomberg reveals that the office’s responsibilities will be transferred to the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.

Additionally, the special representative for Afghanistan’s reconstruction position will be eliminated under these changes. The restructuring is part of a broader effort to streamline the State Department’s organizational framework.

The Coordinator for Afghan Relocation (CARE) office was originally established to coordinate efforts supporting Afghans who worked alongside U.S. forces and required relocation or protection.

Experts warn that closing this office may hinder ongoing support for vulnerable Afghans, especially those at risk of retaliation under Taliban rule. Humanitarian groups urge the U.S. government to maintain robust assistance programs for these individuals.

The decision comes amid shifting U.S. priorities in the region but highlights ongoing challenges in balancing diplomatic restructuring with humanitarian obligations toward Afghan allies.

The post US plans to close Afghan Relocation Coordination Office appeared first on Khaama Press.