Afghan Allies Still Waiting for the Safety Germany Promised

Afghan nationals who assisted German efforts in their country continue to await the safety Germany promised, with many feeling abandoned. Promises made by German politicians, such as former Foreign Minister Heiko Maas's statement on August 26, 2021, that "Our work continues until all those for whom we carry responsibility in Afghanistan are safe," have not been fully realized for all.

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Our work continues until all those for whom we carry responsibility in Afghanistan are safe.

Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, over 37,000 Afghan nationals have arrived in Germany, including those who worked with German armed forces or aid programs, and their relatives. However, hundreds, like Javad Niazi, who worked for the Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, remain stranded in Peshawar, Pakistan, fearing the Taliban and Pakistani security forces. Niazi described his family's situation as being trapped in a small cage, unable to access basic services like hospitals or schools, and running out of savings.

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I am very grateful to Germany. But if someone says, 'I will help you,' then it must remain that way. One must keep a promise.

Niazi's plight is shared by approximately 600 other Afghans in Peshawar and Kabul who are desperately hoping for relocation to Germany. They express disbelief that a country like Germany would seemingly retract its commitments. The situation is compounded by a lack of residence permits in Pakistan, restricting their movement and increasing their vulnerability to arrest and deportation.

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He is in the same position as 600 other Afghans who are desperately holding out in Peshawar and in Kabul, continuing to hope that they can leave for Germany.

The new German government, formed in May 2025, reportedly included a coalition agreement to scrap resettlement programs for local staff. This decision has left many Afghans who aided Germany in a precarious position, unable to return to Afghanistan due to the brutal and violent conditions under Taliban rule.

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My 14-year-old son goes shopping when it gets dark here. We cannot go to any bazaar, park or hospital; my children cannot go to school. It is an enormous strain on us. We never would have thought that a country like Germany would take back its decision, it's unbelievable.