This is an unprecedented decision and will have enormous consequences

Germany’s government under Chancellor Friedrich Merz is reportedly close to reaching a historic agreement with the Taliban in Afghanistan concerning the deportation of Afghan migrants from Germany.

If finalized, Germany would become the first European Union country to establish direct cooperation with a regime formally recognized only by Russia, according to Brussels-based Politico.

German officials say the planned deal would allow regular deportations, starting with individuals convicted of crimes, but potentially extending to all Afghans without legal status. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that technical talks with authorities in Kabul have already taken place and that the first regular deportation flights will soon be arranged.

In exchange, Germany is offering the Taliban partial international legitimacy, a long-sought goal of the regime. A precedent-setting step has already been taken: German authorities have permitted Taliban representatives to participate in the operation of Afghan consulates in Germany, an unprecedented move among EU states.

The agreement has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and the United Nations, which warn that deportees could face torture or repression under Taliban rule. The UN has also highlighted that such a practice could violate international law, particularly the principle prohibiting the return of individuals to countries where they face serious threats.

According to Politico, the German government, under pressure from the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, aims to increase the number of deportations and tighten migration policy. Taliban representatives have described cooperation with Germany positively, stating that deported individuals will be processed according to Sharia law.

Austria, Belgium, and other EU countries have already expressed interest in joining this model to organize joint deportation flights. Analysts warn that further collaboration with the Taliban could carry significant political and security risks, especially regarding potential access to sensitive personal data of Afghan citizens in the diaspora.

The Taliban reportedly plan to raise their official flag in Berlin, symbolizing a new step toward international recognition of the regime, which has ruled Afghanistan for the past four years.