The German government is looking to safeguard Afghan refugees in Pakistan from potential mass deportations by extending an invitation for thousands of them to reside in Germany. A statement from the German government to Clara Bünger, a Left Party member, indicates this move to provide a list of eligible refugees to the Pakistani Foreign Ministry. This data can be used to verify if an individual is permitted to leave Pakistan and head to Germany.
Back in October, Pakistan announced plans to deport refugees without valid residency papers, which then numbered around 4.4 million in the country, of whom 1.7 million were not legally recognized. The Pakistani government cited security concerns as the primary reason for the planned deportations, an action happening just before the local parliamentary elections in February.
At present, around 11,500 accepted Afghanistan nationals who are eligible to enter Germany are on a waiting list. With around 3,000 in Pakistan, 300 in Iran, and over 8,000 in Afghanistan, only 573 have successfully arrived in Germany since the end of June. Out of this group, 572 have gained entry through the federal admission program, a scheme meant for the most vulnerable Afghans involved in human rights, women's advocacy, and other fields.
Bünger, a Left Party member, criticized the slow implementation of admission programs, highlighting the predicament of many Afghans at risk of deportation in Pakistan. The German government, she suggested, should expedite the admission process, undertaking any required security checks after arrival in Germany.
While the German government is not actively impeding Pakistan's potential mass deportations of Afghan refugees, its own policies on Afghan asylum-seekers' deportations are a cause of controversy and debate. Critics argue that proposed deportations could jeopardize human rights, potentially leading to severe abuses in both Afghanistan and third countries.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have outlined concerns regarding compliance with the German constitution and international law, as well as morale among Afghan refugees living in Germany. Many refugees are apprehensive that these policies will only worsen their situation, as anti-immigration factions may exploit refugees for political gain.
In conclusion, the German government is addressing the plight of Afghan refugees in Pakistan by planning to admit eligible individuals to the country. Despite concerns about its own policies on Afghan asylum-seekers, Germany is primarily focused on safeguarding Afghan refugees in Pakistan and ensuring a smooth admission process for those who earn the right to enter Germany.
