Berlin – Germany – Forty-seven Afghan nationals, including ten families, have arrived in Germany from Pakistan after months of waiting, marking the first group admitted under a humanitarian programme previously suspended by the German government. The families fled Taliban rule in 2021 and had been stranded in Pakistan, awaiting resettlement.
The programme, aimed at offering sanctuary to Afghans at high risk or who had worked with German institutions, was halted earlier this year under Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration amid stricter immigration policies. However, recent court rulings compelled Germany to honour its commitments to approved applicants.
The group arrived in Hanover on a commercial flight from Istanbul, having completed all necessary visa procedures and security screenings. Many of the individuals were previously involved in politics, journalism, or the justice system, placing them at heightened risk under Taliban rule.
This development represents a significant step in Germany’s handling of Afghan refugees, resuming admissions for individuals previously approved while the programme remains suspended for new applicants. Approximately 85 other Afghans in Pakistan are pursuing legal action for resettlement, with more expected to follow.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.