Taliban, EU to Hold Rare Closed-Door Talks on Afghan Deportations

Representatives of the Afghan Taliban are set to hold rare closed-door discussions with European Union officials as concerns grow over the increasing number of Afghan migrants facing deportation from Europe.

The talks, expected to take place in Kabul, mark one of the few direct engagements between EU representatives and the Taliban administration since the group returned to power in Afghanistan in August 2021. The meeting is expected to focus on migration management, the repatriation of Afghan nationals, and humanitarian concerns linked to deportations.

European countries have faced growing political pressure to tighten immigration policies amid rising asylum applications and irregular migration. Several governments have been exploring ways to increase the return of Afghan nationals whose asylum claims have been rejected, despite ongoing concerns about security and human rights conditions in Afghanistan.

According to diplomatic sources, EU officials intend to raise issues related to the safe and dignified return of deported Afghans, while also seeking assurances regarding their treatment upon arrival. The discussions are expected to address documentation, identity verification, and practical arrangements for returnees.

The Taliban administration has repeatedly called for greater international engagement and the normalization of relations with foreign governments. While the EU has not formally recognized the Taliban government, European officials have maintained limited contact with Taliban authorities on issues including humanitarian aid, migration, and security.

Human rights organizations have expressed concern about deportations to Afghanistan, citing restrictions on women’s rights, economic hardship, and the country’s fragile humanitarian situation. Critics argue that returning asylum seekers could expose vulnerable individuals to significant risks.

The European Union has maintained that any migration policy must comply with international law and human rights obligations. Officials say the upcoming discussions are intended to facilitate dialogue on migration challenges while addressing humanitarian concerns surrounding deportations.

Analysts view the meeting as a sign of pragmatic engagement between the two sides, reflecting Europe’s need to manage migration flows and the Taliban’s desire for increased international interaction despite ongoing diplomatic isolation.

While no major policy announcements are expected immediately, the outcome of the talks could influence future cooperation on migration and humanitarian issues between Afghanistan and European countries.