Germany Expands Afghan Deportations Beyond Criminal Cases

DID Press: German authorities have reportedly expanded the scope of deportations of Afghan nationals, with media reports indicating that for the first time in years, Afghans without criminal records are also being included in the process.

German newspaper Die Tageszeitung (taz) reported that at least five Afghan nationals without criminal backgrounds are currently being held in deportation detention facilities across Germany—four in Bavaria and one in Hesse. Another Afghan national detained in Lower Saxony was later released after an administrative error was identified.

Germany had suspended deportations to Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in 2021 due to security and humanitarian concerns. The process resumed in 2024, but previously focused mainly on serious criminals and individuals considered security threats.

Reports say Alexander Dobrindt reached an agreement with Taliban officials regarding the return of Afghan migrants, while Germany also agreed to increase the number of Taliban diplomats in the country. The move has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and human rights advocates.

Rights groups have warned that deporting non-criminal Afghans under current conditions could expose them to serious risks and have urged Germany to balance security concerns with its humanitarian obligations.