Controversial Afghan Deportation Sparks Outcry Over Germany's Commitment to Human Rights

Germany's recent deportation flight carrying 81 Afghan men has received sharp criticism from peace researchers and human rights advocates, according to a report by Khaama Press. The deportees, whose asylum claims had failed and who reportedly have criminal records, were sent from Leipzig to Kabul on July 18. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the operation as part of a broader 'repatriation offensive' that aims to deport criminals and dangerous individuals to countries like Afghanistan and Syria.

The initiative has sparked deep legal and diplomatic concerns, particularly as Germany does not formally recognize the Taliban regime. In this unprecedented move, two Taliban-linked representatives are set to be stationed at the Afghan embassy in Berlin to facilitate future deportations. Nicole Deitelhoff, a peace and conflict researcher from the University of Frankfurt, strongly criticized the decision, stating in Tagesspiegel that it undermines Germany's legal and moral credibility.

More than 377,000 people of Afghan origin currently reside in Germany, with nearly 11,500 listed by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees as 'required to leave.' Critics argue that deporting individuals amid Afghanistan's worsening human rights situation jeopardizes the country's humanitarian commitments. Government spokesman Stefan Kornelius stated that Qatar is mediating between Berlin and Afghanistan's de facto authorities, even as Germany continues its deportation policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)