1. What the government decided
The German federal government under Chancellor Merz has revoked nearly half of the admission promises that the previous coalition made for vulnerable Afghans living in Pakistan. Of 2,308 people named in those commitments, 788 have arrived in Germany since the new government took office in May 2025, 410 are currently in exit or travel procedures, and the remaining commitments have been declared non-binding and withdrawn.
Background and statistics
These decisions affect a group of people who were identified for evacuation or resettlement due to their particular risk because of links to German support or collaboration. The government states that security reviews have been completed and that only a small share of cases raised concerns.
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Admission promises issued | 2,308 |
| Arrivals since May 2025 | 788 |
| In exit or travel process | 410 |
| Revoked or declared non-binding | Remaining cases out of 2,308 |
| Security screenings referenced | over 5,400 |
| Security concerns reported | about 3% of screenings |
| Afghans admitted since 2021 via programs | 37,652 |
| Total notable figures | Data from 2025 and 2026 decisions |
Government justification
The government explains the revocations by pointing to completed security hearings and a low proportion of flagged cases. Officials say there is no longer a political interest in admitting the remaining individuals and have offered financial payments to some people in exchange for renouncing entry to Germany.
- Security screenings reviewed more than 5,400 cases
- Only around 3 percent showed security concerns according to the government
- Decisions framed as non-binding where political will is absent
- Monetary offers made to some to forego admission
2. Reactions and criticism
The decision has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties, human rights advocates, and organizations focused on refugee protection. Critics argue the move abandons people who relied on German support and could leave them exposed to danger from the Taliban or other threats in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Political responses
Representatives from the political left called the approach irresponsible and inhumane, stressing that many Afghans had been supported by Germany for years while in Pakistan and now face abandonment. The Greens demanded immediate evacuations after reports of a Taliban raid in Kabul and characterized the revocations as a scandal, pointing to court rulings that underline German responsibilities in some cases.
- Left party describes the revocations as irresponsible and unacceptable
- Greens call for urgent evacuations following security incidents
- Civil society warns of humanitarian risks for those left behind
Legal challenges
Numerous lawsuits are pending against the admission denials. Courts have in several cases affirmed that Germany bears responsibility for people who worked with or were protected by German institutions, and legal proceedings may influence whether some revocations stand.
3. Human impact and risks
The revocations affect people who are often in vulnerable situations: they may lack legal status, face threats from the Taliban, and depend on support networks that are fragile. Those still in Pakistan or Afghanistan could face increased danger if promised relocation is withdrawn.
Where people currently stand
In simple terms, three groups emerge from the official figures: people who have already arrived in Germany, people currently in the departure process, and people whose promises were revoked and who may now be left without a clear path to safety.
- Arrived in Germany: 788 people
- In exit or travel procedures: 410 people
- Promises revoked or declared non-binding: the remainder of the 2,308 cases
4. What comes next
The immediate future will be shaped by pending court cases, parliamentary debate, and continued public scrutiny. Legal rulings could require the government to reinstate some admission promises. Political pressure and reports of worsening security in Afghanistan could also prompt further evacuations.
Implications for refugee intake and policy
This episode raises broader questions about how Germany handles refugee intake, resettlement and asylum commitments. It highlights tensions between security screening, political will, legal obligations, and humanitarian responsibility. Observers will be watching how the government balances those interests and whether policy changes will affect future resettlement programs.
- Watch for court outcomes that may reverse or limit revocations
- Monitor parliamentary debates on refugee and resettlement policy
- Follow developments in Afghanistan and Pakistan that affect the need for evacuation
- Expect continued legal challenges and public advocacy on behalf of affected Afghans
