Last week, the German government temporarily suspended the admission procedure for Afghanistan in order to introduce an extended security check. This was based on indications of possible misuse of the procedure. In principle, we welcome such a review, provided that the new procedure is carried out in accordance with international standards while safeguarding the rights of those seeking protection.<\/p>\n
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However, the fact that the new procedure is to be introduced after an indefinite time is strongly criticized by the non-governmental organizations Kabul Luftbruecke and the New Association of Judges (Neue Richtervereinigung). Since the issuance of visas for protection seekers is suspended until then, a majority of them will be exposed to further dangers as a result.<\/p>\n
“The German government has had over a year to set up an appropriate screening process in its embassies. We have also been calling for this for a long time. Due to this renewed government failure, over 1000 people are now stuck in neighboring countries in the process of leaving the country,” says Herta Mirea, Ground Operator Pakistan, from Kabul Luftbruecke. “Many families have little or no financial means. Those who are already in Iran or Pakistan due to their visa deadlines are now unable to continue their onward journey despite being promised admission. If no solution is found in time, they are threatened with deportation back to Afghanistan. A large number of people with approval are also still there. They have to stay in the country despite Germany’s acceptance and recognition that they are particularly at risk from the Taliban regime.”<\/p>\n
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