20 European countries are pressing the EU to expel illegal Afghans

Twenty out of twenty seven European countries are urging the European Commission to prioritize the return of Afghan nationals living illegally in Europe, either voluntarily or by force, including through negotiations with the Taliban, EuroNews reported.

In a letter addressed to Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Belgian Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt led the initiative, calling on the Commission to develop a comprehensive repatriation strategy. The letter, supported by 18 other EU member states and Norway, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, and Sweden emphasized engaging the Taliban regime to establish a formal return policy.

Van Bossuyt suggested strengthening the EU border agency Frontex’s role in organizing voluntary returns via the EU Reintegration Programme. For forced returns, the letter recommends prioritizing individuals deemed dangerous or criminal, coordinated through joint missions involving the Commission, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and participating member states.

Since the Taliban took power in 2021, Russia remains the only country to recognize their government, but Germany under Chancellor Friedrich Merz has moved closer to a bilateral understanding with the Taliban. Germany conducted a flight deporting 81 Afghan nationals in July 2025, primarily those with criminal records, and hopes other EU countries follow. However, the UN has warned against forced returns, noting that Afghanistan remains under a “non-return advisory,” highlighting potential human rights risks.

France, on the other hand, did not sign the EU letter. The government requires parliamentary approval for international agreements affecting individual rights, and current political turmoil makes such a move highly sensitive. While France avoids forced deportations, it can still participate in EU mechanisms for voluntary returns, Frontex operations, and humanitarian reintegration programs. The EU generally accepts such opt-outs.

The Taliban have not officially responded to the EU initiative, but past actions suggest their cooperation is conditional on recognition or acceptance of their authority. Previous statements condemning Pakistan’s deportations of Afghans and welcoming Russia’s recognition indicate the Taliban seeks engagement only if their sovereignty and authority are respected.

Europe hosts an estimated over 60,000 Afghan nationals residing illegally, with Germany, France, and Italy reporting the highest numbers. Several countries have carried out deportations in recent years: Germany has deported dozens of Afghan nationals with criminal records since 2021, France deported around 22,000 migrants living illegally in 2024 , and Italy has attempted transfers to Albania. Deportation costs vary widely, with Germany estimating €5,000 - €15,000 per person for forced returns, while voluntary returns are far cheaper, averaging €560 - €3,500 depending on incentives.

The EU has also signed readmission agreements with several third countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Turkey, and Western Balkan nations, to facilitate returns. However, no formal EU-wide agreement exists with Afghanistan, making negotiations case-by-case. Frontex often coordinates joint deportation flights and provides financial or logistical support to third countries willing to cooperate.

EU push for Afghan returns highlights a complex interplay of human rights, politics, international diplomacy, and logistical challenges. Germany leads bilateral talks with the Taliban, France maintains a cautious stance due to legal and political constraints, and the Taliban’s conditional cooperation underscores the delicate balance between repatriation and recognition.