In 2024, several criminal incidents involving Afghan immigrants in Germany significantly impacted public and governmental attitudes towards Afghan migrants. These events led to a wave of hatred and distrust towards Afghan immigrants in Germany. Previously, the people and government of Germany had accepted Afghan immigrants with compassion and understanding, granting asylum to many due to the ongoing insecurity in Afghanistan.
Now, with increasing negative sentiments towards Afghan immigrants, the German government is considering changes to some immigration laws to facilitate the deportation of Afghan asylum seekers back to Afghanistan. Human rights activists consider this move extremely dangerous. They believe that deporting Afghan asylum seekers to a country under Taliban control could seriously endanger their lives and security.
Although the issue of deporting Afghan migrants had received less attention in recent months, a recent incident in the city of Solingen, where a Syrian immigrant committed a crime, has brought this topic back to the forefront of the news. After this attack, Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany, announced that stricter immigration policies would be implemented, and more illegal immigrants would be deported. This discussion is largely due to the involvement of Syrian and Afghan immigrants in several recent criminal incidents in Germany.
Some Afghan immigrants currently living in Germany are either not eligible for asylum or have had their asylum applications rejected due to strict Dublin regulations and other reasons. These individuals now face a serious risk of deportation. Taliban have expressed their willingness to accept Afghan migrants before the recent incidents. Some social media outlets have even reported on preliminary negotiations between the German government and the Taliban regarding the deportation of Afghan migrants, but these reports have not yet been officially confirmed.
During his visit to the site of the Solingen incident, Scholz described the event as "terrorism against us" and emphasized that every possible action should be taken to return and deport those who do not have permission to stay in Germany. These statements come amid growing criticism of the German government's immigration policies, with far-right parties exploiting the situation to advance their own agendas.
In recent months, Germany and other European countries have faced increasing protests from far-right extremists, who have specifically voiced their opposition to immigration. These protests, primarily against Islam, have been accompanied by a large police presence and have increased pressure on the German government to adopt stricter immigration policies.
As a result of these developments, the asylum applications of thousands of Afghans who have sought refuge in Germany in search of safety and peace are now at serious risk. Although Afghanistan is still considered an unsafe country and many Afghans are eligible for asylum, the involvement of some Afghan immigrants in several criminal incidents has created serious challenges for other Afghan asylum seekers, increasing the likelihood that their applications will be rejected.
Guidance for Afghan Immigrants:
- Avoid Illegal Activities: Any illegal behavior can have significant negative effects on the Afghan immigrant community in Germany. Immigrants can respect the laws and regulations of the host country and refrain from any illegal actions.
- Report to the Police: If you observe any suspicious activities or Afghan immigrants intending to commit crimes, you can report it to the local police immediately. Cooperating with law enforcement can help ensure community safety and prevent destructive actions.
- Seek Legal Advice: Immigrants facing the risk of deportation can promptly consult with immigration lawyers to understand their rights and explore legal avenues to prevent deportation.
- Engage with Local Communities: Building positive relationships with local communities and participating in social activities can help reduce tensions and improve the image of Afghan immigrants in Germany.
- Be Informed About Asylum Rights: Awareness of asylum rights and related laws is essential for immigrants. Use reliable sources to obtain up-to-date and accurate information, and seek legal assistance if necessary.
Ask for help from "Beporsed"
For those Afghans seeking specific information, "Beporsed" is here to help. You can reach our information center through WhatsApp (+93729807235), Facebook Messenger, or our website's Messenger to ask our online information desk officer for assistance.
For more information
For more information on immigration, resettlement, education and scholarship programs, and other opportunities available to Afghans worldwide, as well as details on the humanitarian services provided by international organizations in Afghanistan and procedures for obtaining civil documents from governmental institutions, please visit Beporsed's website and social media pages.
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