Germany Flies 141 Afghan Refugees From Pakistan as Deadline Looms

Germany has airlifted 141 Afghan refugees from Pakistan to Hanover, accelerating long-delayed relocations as Islamabad warns of deportations for remaining Afghans awaiting transfer.

Germany’s Interior Ministry announced that 141 Afghan refugees were flown from Islamabad to Hanover on Monday via a charter flight, continuing the accelerated relocation of those promised resettlement after the fall of Kabul four years ago.

According to German media, the flight included 123 individuals from the “Human Rights List” and 18 former local staff or family members of German institutions. Upon arrival in Hanover, they will be resettled across various German states.

Following the Taliban takeover in August 2021, Germany initiated special programs to evacuate local staff, journalists, and human rights activists at risk due to their cooperation with German organizations. These efforts aimed to fulfill international obligations and protect vulnerable Afghans.

Political opposition in Germany against accepting refugees has slowed the resettlement process. The current government under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which campaigned to reduce overall migrant intake, has faced criticism for delays in relocating Afghan refugees despite previous promises.

According to officials, 45 local staff and 246 individuals identified as at risk due to human rights or media activities remain in Pakistan awaiting relocation. Pakistan has set a deadline of eight days for Germany to transfer all Afghan refugees promised resettlement, after which deportations to Afghanistan may occur.

Germany’s Interior Minister stated that while most transfers will be completed within the deadline, some cases may require additional review, and flights for certain refugees could extend into next year.

Observers note that Germany’s handling of Afghan refugee resettlement reflects broader challenges in Europe, where political pressures and bureaucratic delays often conflict with humanitarian commitments.

Human rights groups have urged Germany to accelerate transfers to prevent further risks to Afghan refugees in Pakistan, warning that delays could expose them to threats from both the Taliban and local instability.

The German government has reaffirmed its commitment to the pledges made by previous administrations but faces mounting pressure from international organizations and civil society to create a sustainable framework for the transfer of the remaining Afghan refugees.

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