Activists fear the UK could follow the European Union in negotiating with the Taliban over deporting failed Afghan asylum seekers back to Afghanistan.
The EU said its decision to hold talks last month in Brussels with Afghanistan’s “de facto authorities” were necessary to deport asylum seekers who had committed crimes or were deemed dangerous.
This is despite the bloc not recognising the Taliban government since the militant group – still designated a terrorist organisation by many – returned to power in 2021. The UK, likewise, does not recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s legitimate government.
Shorts
While no official agreements were announced after the talks, a Taliban spokesman said discussions covered possible resumptions of consular services and “the need for trust-building measures”.
