Five years after the Taliban’s return to power, Germany grapples with its approach to Afghanistan, balancing humanitarian concerns and geopolitical realities.

As the Taliban marks five years in control of Afghanistan, Germany finds itself at a crossroads regarding its engagement with the war-torn nation. The German government has largely focused on using Afghanistan as a case study to showcase its stricter migration policies, often emphasizing deportations. However, human rights advocates warn that deportees face severe risks, including torture and death, upon their return to Kabul. Critics argue that a meaningful and informed debate on Afghanistan’s current realities is notably absent in Germany.

Germany’s lack of direct presence in Afghanistan has compounded the issue. Since the closure of its embassy in Kabul five years ago, the German government has relied on second-hand accounts from Afghan expatriates and other indirect sources. While discussions about establishing a liaison office in Kabul have surfaced, fears of public backlash have kept such plans behind closed doors. Meanwhile, the European Union’s delegation office in Kabul demonstrates the value of on-the-ground presence, enabling timely assessments, effective humanitarian aid, and diplomatic engagement with the Taliban. Switzerland has already reopened a humanitarian liaison office in Kabul, offering a potential model for Germany to follow.

The geopolitical stakes in Afghanistan remain high. With no viable opposition to the Taliban and the regime firmly in control, ignoring the country risks ceding influence to powers like Russia, China, Iran, and India. Afghanistan’s strategic location and resource wealth make it a critical player in regional dynamics. Experts warn that disengagement could lead to long-term consequences, drawing parallels to the global fallout from the September 11 attacks. As Germany navigates its next steps, it must weigh the moral imperative to support Afghan citizens against the complex realities of dealing with the Taliban regime.