A scheduled flight from Islamabad has brought 28 Afghans to Germany, marking the second such transfer under Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
The Afghan intake program had been initiated by the previous leftist government, which promised shelter to those awaiting relocation in Pakistan. Chancellor Merz’s administration initially sought to halt the program, citing security concerns and the risk of misuse. However, following legal challenges organized partly by the NGO “Kabul Luftbrücke” (Kabul Airlift), the government has gradually resumed arrivals.
Earlier in September, the first flight landed in Hannover, carrying 47 Afghans who had also won their visa claims. Despite the program’s suspension, over 2,000 Afghans remain in Pakistan with confirmed German entry rights.
Germany’s federal intake scheme for Afghanistan has faced criticism over security and administrative challenges. The Federal Foreign Office, under failed former Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, pressured authorities in Islamabad to issue visas.
The Federal Police have repeatedly denied Afghans entry at German airports due to security concerns.
