The German government is reportedly offering financial incentives and material support to Afghan citizens eligible for the Federal Reception Program (BAP) in exchange for voluntarily relinquishing their entry into Germany. This controversial strategy, revealed by “Welt”, aims to alleviate the severe backlogs plaguing the program, which has remained largely stagnant for months.
Those affected are Afghan nationals, many of whom have been awaiting relocation in Pakistan for up to two years. Despite possessing acceptance commitments for Germany, these individuals have faced persistent visa denials or revocations, often necessitating court orders to compel the government to facilitate their entry. This situation highlights a deepening crisis within the BAP, exposing inconsistencies in Germany’s commitment to providing refuge.
According to a document obtained by “Welt”, eligible individuals could receive a one-time payment of up to €2,500 prior to departure and a further €10,000 upon resettlement – intended for return to Afghanistan or, in limited cases, onward travel to a third country. This is coupled with material assistance, including medical care, accommodation and sustenance, provided for several months. Crucially, acceptance of this offer constitutes a permanent exit from the Federal Reception Program, effectively severing the individuals’ legal pathway to Germany. The government claims these processes will be finalized by the end of 2025.
This policy raises significant ethical and legal questions, attracting criticism from human rights organizations. Opponents argue that offering financial inducements to abandon asylum claims represents a cynical manipulation of vulnerable individuals facing precarious situations. The practice risks undermining the integrity of Germany’s asylum system and normalizes the notion that refugees can be bought out of their rights.
While the government defends the measures as a pragmatic solution to manage an overloaded system, critics point to underlying systemic failures. The policy avoids confronting the root causes of the delays – potentially bureaucratic inefficiencies and political hesitations regarding admitting Afghan refugees – and instead places the burden of resolution on those seeking protection. The arrival of Afghan citizens through the BAP continues, as evidenced by recent arrivals in Hannover, underscoring the ongoing imbalance between policy and implementation. The long-term consequences of this strategy on Germany’s reputation as a safe haven remain to be seen.