The European Union hosted Taliban officials in Brussels for the first time on Tuesday, holding technical talks that the bloc said were aimed at addressing the return of Afghan asylum seekers who no longer have the right to stay in Europe.
The meeting brought together European Commission officials and representatives from 15 EU member states with Afghanistan’s “de facto authorities”, despite the bloc’s continued refusal to recognize the Taliban government.
The Taliban returned to power five years ago after two decades of conflict with a government backed by a U.S.-led NATO force.
EU defends talks over deportations
The European Commission said the discussions were a follow-up to an earlier meeting in Kabul in January and focused on “return and readmission” issues.
Brussels said engagement was necessary to make it possible to deport Afghan nationals who have committed crimes or are considered dangerous and who do not have a legal right to remain in the EU.
A European Commission spokesperson said the talks were co-chaired by the Commission and Sweden and involved officials responsible for return and readmission matters.
The Afghan Foreign Ministry said the agenda was broader, including discussions on possible consular services for Afghans living in Europe and steps to build trust between the sides.
Afghan officials said the meeting created an opportunity to improve access to consular services and protect the rights of Afghans abroad.
Rights groups warn against legitimizing Taliban
The talks faced strong criticism from rights groups and some European politicians, who argued that direct engagement could give legitimacy to the Taliban authorities.
Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai criticized the move, saying Europe should not legitimize a government accused of serious human rights abuses.
Critics also warned that cooperation on returns could put Afghan nationals at risk if they are sent back to Afghanistan.
Jeff Crisp, former Head of Policy Development and Evaluation at UNHCR and visiting fellow at the University of Oxford, said returning Afghans could expose them to persecution after arrival.
Taliban seek wider cooperation
While the EU focused on migration issues, Afghanistan’s representatives said they wanted discussions to include wider diplomatic matters.
The Taliban sought progress on consular representation in the EU, the restoration of consular services and broader trust-building measures.
Belgium issued visas allowing the Afghan representatives to enter the country for one day, with restrictions preventing free movement across the Schengen area.
Since returning to power, the Taliban have faced international criticism over restrictions on women’s rights, including limits on education, employment, movement and freedom of expression.
