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The European Union has announced it has begun informal discussions with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan to facilitate the repatriation of unsuccessful asylum seekers. This move comes despite widespread concerns about the Taliban’s human rights abuses and their international legitimacy. The initiative follows a majority in EU countries urging Brussels to engage with Kabul to expedite deportations.
A spokesperson for the European Commission, Markus Lammert, stated during a Brussels press briefing that the EU is working to coordinate efforts among member states. “Earlier this year, we’ve started technical-level contacts with the de facto authorities in Afghanistan,” he explained.
Since retaking control in 2021 and imposing strict laws, the Taliban have faced global isolation. Nonetheless, in a letter led by Belgium, 20 EU nations called on the European Commission to take measures to support both voluntary and forced returns of Afghans who lack legal residence. Belgian migration minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt emphasized, “We cannot deport unauthorized Afghan nationals, even after they have been convicted. This undermines public trust in our asylum policies and compromises our collective security. It’s time for Europe to unite in action.”
The signatory countries include Austria, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Sweden, many of which are part of a bloc pushing for stricter immigration controls amid shifting public opinions and rising support for far-right parties. Currently, fewer than 20% of those ordered to leave the EU are actually deported, according to official data.
Swedish migration minister Johan Forssell suggested that the EU could pool resources for deportations, such as using joint flights to Afghanistan. Discussions with Kabul are reportedly ongoing on technical issues related to repatriation.
While the EU maintains a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan, interactions are limited mainly to humanitarian efforts. The EU emphasizes that such engagement does not legitimize the Taliban government, which has been condemned for repressive policies—particularly against women who are now barred from many jobs, travel without male guardians, or studying after age 12. Public spaces and gyms are also off-limits to women, reflecting the regime’s harsh restrictions.
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