Today, for the first time since August 2021, Afghan nationals were returned from Germany to their country of origin.

All of the repatriating Afghan nationals have been convicted for criminal offences, carry no legal residency and were subject to return orders.

Throughout recent months, the Federal Government has undertaken substantial efforts to resume such returns and has supported the German States (Länder) in this respect.

Given the complicated framework, Germany sought the support of key regional partners to help facilitate the return. The Federal Government is very grateful for this support.

The Federal Government will continue with such returns. The security interests of Germany clearly outweigh the claim for protection of criminals and individuals endangering national security.