Germany Deports 81 Afghan Nationals Convicted of Crimes
BERLIN – July 19, 2025:
Germany has deported 81 Afghan men who were convicted of criminal offenses, in what marks the second such repatriation to Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed control in 2021.
According to German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, the individuals had been subject to legal expulsion orders and were convicted through Germany’s criminal justice system. He confirmed that the deportation flight successfully departed on Friday.
✈️ Second Deportation Since 2021
Germany had previously suspended all deportations to Afghanistan and closed its embassy in Kabul following the Taliban’s takeover. The deportations resumed in August 2024, when 28 individuals were returned in the first such operation.
The latest effort was carried out with support from Qatar, as Germany currently maintains only indirect contact with Afghan authorities through third-party intermediaries.
🗣️ Political and Public Debate
The decision to resume deportations has sparked public and political debate, particularly as migration policy becomes a central issue in the country. The rise of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has placed additional focus on immigration enforcement.
The German Interior Ministry stated that deportations involving individuals convicted of serious crimes must continue in the future, underlining the government’s stance on upholding public safety.
✅ Background
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Embassy Status: Germany’s embassy in Kabul remains closed.
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Convictions: All deported individuals had been convicted of offenses under German law.
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International Coordination: The operation was facilitated through cooperation with international partners, including Qatar.
Germany’s approach reflects ongoing efforts to balance humanitarian considerations with legal enforcement in its immigration policies.
