Negotiations between the German government and the Taliban regime regarding the repatriation of Afghan criminals are sparking significant political disagreement within Germany. While the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) have expressed support for such talks, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) is strongly opposed.
CDU interior policy spokesman Marc Henrichmann defended the government’s approach, stating that, in a manner similar to previous administrations’ discussions about the relocation of local Afghan personnel, the current government is engaged in discussions about deportations. He emphasized the government’s obligation to safeguard citizens and suggested that individuals who violate German law and abuse assistance should be returned, even to Afghanistan.
The SPD has voiced sharp criticism, with the parliamentary group’s foreign policy spokesman, Adis Ahmetovic, condemning the planned negotiations with the Taliban. He argued that dialogue with a group systematically denying women and girls education, employment and freedom, engaging in public violence, persecuting dissenters and violating fundamental human rights is currently untenable. Ahmetovic highlighted the recent issuance of arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court against leading Taliban members, characterizing it as a “clear signal from the international community”. He deemed the Taliban not viable partners, either diplomatically or morally, given their disregard for human dignity.
Recent reports, as featured in Bild, suggest a more discreet initiative involving former high-ranking German officials. Bild reported that August Hanning, former State Secretary in the Federal Interior Ministry and former head of the German foreign intelligence service (BND), recently met with former Afghan President Hamid Karzai at the Adlon Hotel in Berlin. The report suggested a “secret deal” may be in preparation, with Karzai, despite withdrawing from official office in 2014, reportedly acting as a key mediator. Hanning told Bild that he engaged in “intensive discussions” with Karzai, who maintains close contacts with current Afghan authorities and possesses the necessary authority to conduct negotiations with the German government.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) has indicated his intention to increase the number of deportations. He stated that third parties are currently necessary as intermediaries to facilitate discussions with Afghanistan and envisions a future where Germany can establish direct agreements enabling deportations.
