The Greens Reject Söder’s Proposal for Deportation Talks with the Taliban
The German Green Party has rejected a proposal by Bavarian Prime Minister and CSU leader Markus Söder to negotiate with the ruling Taliban in Afghanistan regarding the deportation of criminal refugees.
Söder’s Proposal
Söder made his proposal in response to a recent Islamist-motivated attack in Munich perpetrated by an Afghan refugee. He argued that almost 2,000 Afghans in Bavaria are subject to deportation orders, including nearly 200 who have committed serious crimes. Söder called for "urgent talks with the Taliban about deportation flights" and emphasized the need for weekly flights to remove Afghans who are required to leave the country.
Green Party’s Objections
Green Party politician Lamya Kaddor criticized Söder’s proposal as "addressing the symptom, not the cause" of the issue. She pointed out that most Islamist-motivated perpetrators radicalize within Germany itself.
Kaddor also raised concerns about the diplomatic implications of engaging with the Taliban, warning that it could "diplomatically upgrade" the radical Islamist group. Instead, she advocated for "massive investment in prevention" measures.
Foreign Policy Considerations
Kaddor argued that Söder’s proposal overlooks the foreign policy dimensions of the situation. She highlighted the Taliban’s "inhuman regime that systematically oppresses women."
She also cautioned against establishing direct contact with the Taliban, as it could lead to "official diplomatic relations, which we have not established for good reason."
Focus on Victims and Investigations
In the wake of recent attacks, Kaddor stressed the importance of "acting sensitively" towards victims and the injured. She called for thorough investigations of each case to determine appropriate consequences.
Background on the Taliban
The Taliban is a radical Islamist terrorist group that has been active in Afghanistan and Pakistan since 1984. They adhere to a strict interpretation of Sharia law and gained control of Afghanistan in August 2021 after international troops withdrew from the country.
Germany’s Deportation Policy
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has stated that deportations to Afghanistan will continue, either directly or indirectly through neighboring countries. However, she acknowledged the challenges involved, as collaboration with the Taliban is necessary for implementation.
Conclusion
The Green Party’s rejection of Söder’s proposal reflects their concerns about the effectiveness, diplomatic risks, and human rights implications of engaging with the Taliban on the issue of deportations. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of radicalization within Germany and supports victims of extremism.
