Discussions are ongoing within the German government regarding potential negotiations with the Taliban regime concerning the repatriation of Afghan nationals with criminal records. The initiative has sparked a significant political divide, with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) expressing support, while the Social Democratic Party (SPD) strongly opposes the approach.
CDU interior policy spokesperson Marc Henrichmann defended the potential talks, drawing a parallel to previous government engagement with the Taliban regarding the relocation of local Afghan employees. He stated that individuals who violate German law and abuse assistance should be returned, even to Afghanistan, asserting the government’s obligation to ensure citizen safety.
However, the SPD has voiced sharp criticism. Adis Ahmetovic, the SPD’s spokesperson for foreign policy in the Bundestag, condemned the planned negotiations, arguing that dialogue with a group systematically denying women and girls education, employment and freedom and committing public violence while persecuting dissidents and violating fundamental human rights, is currently untenable. He pointed to recent arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against leading Taliban members as “a clear signal from the international community” underscoring the lack of legitimacy for engaging with the regime, either diplomatically or morally.
Reports have emerged suggesting behind-the-scenes efforts to facilitate the discussions. The Bild newspaper reported that former state secretary at the Interior Ministry and former head of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND), August Hanning, recently met with former Afghan President Hamid Karzai at the Adlon Hotel in Berlin. Hanning reportedly described a “secret deal” being prepared and stated Karzai retains a crucial role as an intermediary, possessing close ties to current authorities and the necessary authority to engage in discussions with Germany. He reportedly facilitated an exchange during a confidential meeting at the China Club.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) has indicated a commitment to increasing deportations, emphasizing the need for third parties to maintain contact with Afghanistan in the interim, with the ultimate goal of establishing direct agreements for repatriation.