Expert Warns No Safe Conditions Exist for Afghan Refugee Returns

Mr. Andisheh delivered his remarks during a discussion at the United Nations focused on refugee issues. He pointed out that Afghan citizens constitute one of the largest groups requiring relocation or resettlement assistance. Legal avenues for migration, however, have become increasingly limited in recent times.

The core of his warning centered on the absence of conditions that would allow for safe and voluntary returns to Afghanistan. Under Taliban rule, he argued, such returns are not feasible without exposing returnees to significant dangers. Women, girls, and former security forces are among those most at risk of facing systematic persecution upon return.

Andisheh also addressed actions by European nations. He claimed that some countries have pursued questionable arrangements with the Taliban to carry out forced deportations. These deals, he warned, could lead to further risks through chain deportations involving multiple countries.

The suspension of various resettlement programs has added to the difficulties. Thousands of Afghans now find themselves in third countries, often in environments that feel like detention centers, with few options for moving forward.

This intervention occurs alongside a meeting in Brussels between a Taliban delegation and officials from the European Union. Representatives from 15 member states took part in the discussions. Member of the European Parliament Hannah Neumann dismissed the event as a "ridiculous show" intended to bolster the Taliban's legitimacy instead of addressing practical matters through technical negotiations.