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The German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, wants to accelerate the deportation of Afghan citizens convicted of serious crimes. To this end, it is seeking to close an agreement with the Taliban that would allow up to three monthly repatriation flights between Germany and Kabul.
For weeks, sources from the German Foreign Ministry have been maintaining technical conversations with the de facto rulers of Afghanistan. The ministry's spokesperson justifies the measure by saying that the goal is "to improve the possibilities of deportation to Afghanistan and repatriate criminals there".
In exchange for their cooperation, the Taliban insist that consular officials collaborate on German territory: they ask, for example, to verify more identities and issue more passports. They also insist that the internationally condemned regime be accepted in the consular sphere.
In Germany, the move has provoked concern and harsh criticism from organisations defending immigrants, such as ProAsyl. The message is clear: a regime that oppresses its own population should not be normalised.
To strike a deal — to reach an agreement. Chancellor — head of the German government. Trade-off — what is given in exchange. To provoke concern — to cause worry. De facto — in fact, without official recognition.
Is it legitimate to negotiate with an unrecognised government for practical purposes such as deportation? What is the difference between diplomatic "recognition" and technical "engagement"?
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