Refugees from Afghanistan arriving in Pakistan in recent days report that the Taliban are forcibly conscripting young men and boys. Some refugees cite forced conscription as their reason for fleeing Afghanistan. In addition, there are reports that Taliban forced conscription is also taking place in refugee camps inside Afghan borders.
• A 20-year old male refugee from Taloqan, newly arrived in a refugee camp in Pakistan, said: "We came three days ago... the Taliban came collecting young boys for the front line, after the American bombs. My mother was afraid. They are telling everyone, very young boys, that they must come to fight, defend our country against America. I did not want to fight against America." (As reported by the Washington Post, October 30)
• There were reports from Mazar-I-Sharif that the Taliban were forcibly conscripting young men, setting a quota of two men per neighborhood, and heavily fining those who refused. (As reported by the Chicago Tribune, October 30)
• Many of the refugees crossing into Pakistan at Chaman over the past few weeks have told the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) that they fear being forced to fight for the Taliban. There are consistent reports of forced conscription. (As reported by the UNHCR)