Germany Deports Afghans for the First Time Since Taliban Took Power
Germany has conducted its first deportation of Afghans back to their home country since the Taliban seized control in August 2021. The government stated that the 28 individuals deported were convicted offenders with deportation orders and no legal right to stay in Germany.
The deportation, facilitated by Qatar as a mediator between Berlin and the Taliban, marked the end of a two-month negotiation process. This move comes after Germany halted deportations to Afghanistan and closed its embassy in Kabul last year.
Amid increasing pressure to address illegal migration and crack down on dangerous asylum seekers, Germany is taking stricter measures. Following recent high-profile crimes involving migrants, the government plans to resume expulsions to Syria and Afghanistan soon.
The issue of immigration is a central theme in upcoming regional elections in eastern Germany, where far-right parties like AfD are expected to gain significant support.