Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to granting asylum to at-risk Afghans, but only after thorough individual security screenings. The move comes amid mounting pressure from nearly 200 Afghans currently stranded in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, all of whom hold official German admission promises and fear for their lives.
The group, including artists, human rights activists, former government workers, and journalists, was sent back from Pakistan to Afghanistan earlier this month. In an open letter, they urged the German government to expedite their evacuation, reporting daily threats of kidnapping, torture, and arbitrary imprisonment by the Taliban. “Every hour of delay could cost us our lives,” read the appeal.
German authorities say while some cases are clear-cut, others require extensive reviews before entry is allowed. Merz emphasized, “We are currently checking the eligibility for entry into the Federal Republic of Germany in each case individually,” pointing to Germany’s obligation to adhere to legal protocols alongside humanitarian responsibilities.
Stuck in Limbo: At-Risk Afghans Await German Entry
Recent successes in German courts have enabled several Afghan families to enter Germany using judicial rulings. On Monday, 45 Afghans landing in Hannover celebrated court-ordered entry after successfully completing the vetting process.
Germany had initially pledged refuge to many Afghans following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, particularly those who actively supported democratic institutions and human rights. However, these voluntary admission programs were halted by Germany’s coalition government as part of a wider shift to stricter immigration controls. An estimated 2,100 Afghans still remain stuck in Pakistan, and about 200 in Afghanistan, with only a small number securing visas through lengthy legal action.
Advocacy groups and the opposition Greens party continue to urge swifter action for these vulnerable people. For now, Merz’s stance reflects Germany’s balancing act between legal, security, and moral obligations in the face of a humanitarian crisis.
