Germany Says Afghan Refugee Deportation Unlikely Before Elections

Speaking on February 14, Stefan Hebstreit, the spokesperson for the German government, said he could not“raise undue expectations” regarding deportation flights before the elections. However, he emphasized that Germany continues to prepare for this process.

He also mentioned that Germany does not have a diplomatic presence in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, making deportations particularly challenging. He added that Berlin is engaging in discussions with international partners, although the timeline for deportations remains uncertain.

A German Foreign Ministry official also stressed that the government cannot predict the timing of deportations, as announcing such actions in advance could jeopardize their execution and potentially alert the individuals involved. Germany remains committed to facilitating deportations to Afghanistan, despite the ongoing difficulties.

The situation surrounding the deportation of Afghan refugees has become more complex following the recent car attack in Munich. The attack, committed by an Afghan refugee, has sparked renewed calls for stricter measures on Afghan deportations. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser affirmed that deportations to Afghanistan would continue despite the growing concerns.

The car attack in Munich, which injured 36 people, has heightened tensions around immigration policies. The attack, carried out by an Afghan asylum seeker, has prompted political debates on the safety of allowing refugees from Afghanistan to remain in Germany. The incident has added fuel to the ongoing discussions about asylum and deportation.

As Germany faces increasing pressure to address security concerns, particularly after such violent acts, the issue of deporting Afghan refugees becomes even more urgent. While deportations are not expected to happen before the February elections, the tragic event in Munich may accelerate the conversation and decision-making surrounding refugee policies in the country.

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