Germany to Transfer Afghans Trapped in Pakistan as Deportation Deadline Looms

DID Press: Germany announced that it will begin transferring the majority of Afghan nationals it has accepted, who are still trapped in Pakistan, within weeks. The move comes amid Islamabad’s warning of possible deportations of these individuals by the end of the year, giving the operation heightened urgency.

The German federal government aims to complete most transfers before the end of the calendar year, although finalizing all cases may continue into January or February.

These remarks were made by Alexander Dobrindt, Germany’s Interior Minister, during an emergency session of the Bundestag’s Internal Affairs Committee. He emphasized that only those who have received a “final acceptance letter” and whose security procedures are complete will be allowed to travel.

Meanwhile, human rights groups and refugee organizations in Germany warn that nearly 1,900 officially accepted Afghans are at risk of detention and deportation in Pakistan.

During the session, Filiz Polat, a representative of the Green Party, sharply criticized Dobrindt, saying he refused to provide a clear timeline and did not adequately respond to the urgent situation. The Greens demand precise answers on how Afghans who have collaborated with German institutions over the years will be protected.

German media also reported that the government had previously offered some accepted Afghans a voluntary opt-out from transfer in exchange for a monetary sum. Over 60 individuals accepted the offer, but most rejected it.

Opposition parties in Berlin argue that the government acted too late and now faces a “narrow window” to fulfill its commitments. Nevertheless, the federal government insists it is coordinating with Islamabad and international partners to ensure the safe passage of eligible Afghans.