The German government has deported 81 Afghan men convicted of criminal offenses, marking its second mass repatriation to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan since the militant group regained power in 2021. The operation, carried out with logistical support from Qatar, reflects a significant shift in Germany’s immigration policy under Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservative-led administration.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt confirmed the deportation flight departed early Friday morning, stating that all individuals had received final expulsion orders following convictions under Germany’s criminal justice system. “Serious criminals have no right to residency in our country,” Dobrindt emphasized, adding that further deportations are planned.
Germany had suspended deportations to Afghanistan in 2021 due to security concerns following the Taliban’s takeover. However, the recent rise in public anxiety over migration, coupled with political pressure from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has reignited debate over the country’s deportation policies.
The deportation was facilitated by Qatar, as Germany maintains no direct diplomatic relations with the Taliban regime. Authorities stressed that such operations are essential to uphold public safety and the integrity of the asylum system.
This latest move follows a similar deportation of 28 Afghan nationals in August 2024 under the previous government. The current administration has since suspended family reunification for many migrants and increased border enforcement measures.
While the government defends the deportations as necessary for national security, human rights organizations have voiced concerns. Critics warn that returning individuals to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan may expose them to persecution and violate international humanitarian standards.
Minister Dobrindt is scheduled to meet with counterparts from France, Poland, Austria, Denmark, and the Czech Republic, along with the EU’s migration commissioner, to discuss coordinated migration strategies amid rising tensions across Europe.