EU Hosts Taliban Delegation in Brussels for Talks on Afghan Deportations

A delegation representing Afghanistan's Taliban administration arrived in Brussels on Tuesday for a series of closed-door discussions with European Union officials , with migration and deportation policies expected to dominate the agenda.

The visit marks one of the most significant direct engagements between EU institutions and Taliban representatives since the group regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 . Belgian authorities granted short-term visas to members of the delegation, including Taliban foreign ministry spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi, to participate in the meetings.

According to officials familiar with the discussions, the talks are focused on practical cooperation concerning the return of Afghan nationals who have been denied asylum or are facing deportation from European countries. The EU has maintained that such contacts are limited to operational matters and should not be interpreted as political recognition of the Taliban government .

The meeting, however, has sparked criticism from human rights organizations and Afghan advocacy groups . Critics argue that holding formal discussions with Taliban officials risks legitimizing a regime accused of widespread restrictions on civil liberties, particularly the rights of women and girls . They have also warned that deported Afghans could face serious risks upon returning to a country still grappling with economic hardship, security concerns and a deep humanitarian crisis .

Several rights groups have urged European governments to refrain from deporting Afghan nationals, citing ongoing concerns about personal safety and the lack of legal protections under Taliban rule. Activists contend that any policy discussions involving returns should prioritize international protection obligations and humanitarian considerations .

The Brussels talks come as European governments continue to face domestic pressure to strengthen migration controls and streamline deportation procedures . At the same time, policymakers are seeking ways to balance border management objectives with commitments to human rights and refugee protection .

The outcome of the discussions could influence future EU approaches toward Afghanistan, particularly on migration cooperation, while reigniting debate over how the bloc should engage with the Taliban without formally recognizing its administration.