Disagreement in German Government Over Return of Afghanistani Refugees

DID Press: German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt’s call to expedite deportation of Afghanistani refugees with criminal records has sparked a debate within the government as the Social Democratic Party warning of potential diplomatic consequences.

In response to Dobrindt’s remarks, party Secretary-General Tim Klossendorf said such measures should not create an official channel with Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government.

“We support the return of criminals, but this does not mean engaging with or recognizing the Taliban,” Klossendorf emphasized. “We will maintain this red line.”

Germany has recently pursued a cautious policy toward Afghanistan and continues to refrain from recognizing the Taliban as the country’s official government.