The German government’s handling of the return of Afghan nationals previously deported to Pakistan is facing escalating criticism, with significant shortcomings revealed in procedures and a deepening humanitarian crisis. According to a written response to a query from Green Party parliamentarian Schahina Gambir, only 22 of the nearly 250 Afghan individuals deported to Afghanistan with assurances of eventual relocation to Pakistan have been able to return.
Further information released in response to a smaller inquiry from the Green Party reveals that the German government is actively assisting with Pakistani visa acquisition for only 53 of the deported individuals. This limited scope underlines the scale of the problem and raises concerns about the commitment to providing promised support.
Gambir has sharply condemned the government’s approach, labeling it “irresponsible”. She accuses the government of failing to meet both its legal and humanitarian obligations, leaving vulnerable individuals exposed to ongoing risks in Afghanistan. Her critique extends to the Interior Ministry’s apparent lack of transparency, highlighting its inability to confirm the backlog of outstanding security interviews – a crucial step in the relocation process.
The revelations underscore a potential crisis of confidence in Germany’s asylum policies and the government’s ability to manage complex repatriation agreements, particularly amidst the volatile security situation in Afghanistan. Critics argue the current stance risks leaving vulnerable individuals stranded, highlighting the urgent need for a revised and more humane strategy concerning deportations and resettlement initiatives. The Green Party’s questioning suggests a deeper investigation into the Interior Ministry’s processes is warranted and that a more robust system is needed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those affected.
