The German government is poised to resume and significantly expand deportations to Afghanistan, marking a notable shift in policy and drawing immediate criticism from human rights organizations. A spokesperson for the Federal Interior Ministry confirmed on Wednesday that the first deportation flight carrying an Afghan national with a criminal record was executed earlier this week, signaling the commencement of a planned and ongoing program.
This latest action follows a previous group deportation over the summer and represents a tacit acknowledgment by Berlin that the security situation in Afghanistan, a longstanding impediment to deportations, has stabilized enough to warrant returns. The individual deported had previously been convicted of crimes in Germany, according to the ministry.
While refusing to provide specific figures for the potential number of annual deportations, the spokesperson indicated that the government intends to prioritize individuals considered “dangerous” and convicted of criminal offenses. This approach, championed by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt of the CSU, proposes a “step-by-step” expansion of deportations, raising concerns about the criteria used to define “dangerousness” and the potential for misclassification.
The decision has already sparked controversy. Opposition parties and human rights advocates argue that the security situation in Afghanistan remains precarious, particularly for returnees with potential ties to criminal networks or facing political persecution. Concerns have been raised about the lack of adequate protection mechanisms for those deported and the potential for them to face imprisonment or harm upon arrival.
Critics point to ongoing instability and the presence of extremist groups within Afghanistan as fundamental reasons why forced returns are irresponsible. They question whether the German government has adequately assessed the risks and whether sufficient due process is being afforded to those targeted for deportation. The decision reflects a broader trend within European nations seeking to manage immigration and perceived security threats, but it also highlights the complex humanitarian and political implications of such policies in a volatile region. The government’s justification, focusing on criminal deportations, is expected to be a focal point of ongoing debate and legal challenges.