Germany Deports Afghan Nationals for the First Time Since Taliban Return, Amid Immigration Debate

In a move that has sparked controversy, Germany has deported 28 Afghan nationals to their homeland, highlighting the country's ongoing struggle with immigration and security concerns.

Germany has resumed deportations of Afghan nationals to their homeland for the first time since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. On Friday, the government deported 28 Afghan nationals, who were described as convicted criminals.

Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit stated that the deportations were carried out after careful consideration, with the security interests of Germany prevailing over the protection of those convicted of crimes. Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that criminals cannot expect to evade deportation.

Germany Deports Afghan Nationals for the First Time Since Taliban Return, Amid Immigration Debate

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the move as a matter of maintaining trust in the rule of law. She argued that criminals should face the consequences of their actions, even if it means deportation to their country of origin.

However, human rights groups have condemned the deportations, asserting that Afghanistan remains an unsafe country and that the deportations violate international law. Julia Duchrow, secretary general of Amnesty International in Germany, accused the government of bowing to political pressure during an election campaign.

Germany Deports Afghan Nationals for the First Time Since Taliban Return, Amid Immigration Debate

The deportations have also raised concerns about the impact on relations between Germany and the Taliban. Germany does not have diplomatic relations with the Taliban, complicating the process of repatriation. The recent introduction of strict laws in Afghanistan, including a requirement for women to conceal their faces and voices outside the home, has further strained relations between the two countries.

The deportations come amid a broader debate about immigration in Germany ahead of regional elections in Saxony and Thuringia on Sunday. Anti-immigration parties, such as the populist Alternative for Germany, are expected to perform well in the elections.

Germany Deports Afghan Nationals for the First Time Since Taliban Return, Amid Immigration Debate

In June, Chancellor Scholz had announced plans to resume deportations of criminals from Afghanistan and Syria after a knife attack by an Afghan immigrant left one police officer dead and four more people wounded. The government has also pledged to tighten knife laws and make deportations easier.

The resumption of deportations to Afghanistan highlights the complex challenges facing Germany as it grapples with immigration and security concerns. The government's decision to prioritize security over the protection of individuals convicted of crimes has sparked controversy and raised questions about the future of Germany's asylum policies.