Continuing its commitment to assisting vulnerable Afghans, the German government has facilitated the departure of a group from Islamabad, Pakistan, destined for Berlin, Germany, as confirmed by the German Foreign Office. This initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to relocate Afghans deemed at risk, particularly those who collaborated with German agencies.
German authorities did not disclose specific details regarding the number of individuals aboard the flight. However, the operation falls under Germany’s Admission Program (Bundesaufnahmeprogram), which aims to provide refuge to Afghan nationals facing various forms of persecution.
Although approximately 1,400 Afghans have been accepted into the program, only 290 have successfully entered Germany thus far. The program prioritizes individuals involved in democracy, human rights, media, education, and cultural endeavors, as well as those who collaborate with Western governments or aid groups or face threats based on gender or sexual orientation.
Germany has expressed its capacity to admit up to 1,000 Afghans monthly through the Admission Program, underscoring its commitment to providing sanctuary to the needy.
Following the fall of Kabul in August 2021, Germany initiated evacuation efforts to relocate vulnerable Afghans. Approximately 33,000 individuals, including local workers and their families, have found refuge in Germany, with around 20,000 being former local staff.
In the wake of Taliban rule, Afghan women have faced severe restrictions, including limitations on education beyond the sixth grade and barriers to employment, travel, and healthcare without male guardianship. The Taliban’s decree mandating the wearing of the burqa echoes past restrictions endured during their previous regime from 1996 to 2001.
While many Afghan refugees have sought shelter in neighboring Pakistan, Germany’s ongoing efforts signify a concerted response to provide sanctuary and support for vulnerable Afghans amid escalating challenges in their homeland.