European External Action Service (EEAS)
Leiden, 24 October 2025
To:
Ms. Kaja Kallas
High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
European External Action Service (EEAS)
Brussels, Belgium
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Reconsider Negotiations with the Taliban on the Return of Afghan Asylum Seekers
Dear Ms. Kallas,
We are writing to you on behalf of the Federation of Afghan Organizations in Europe (FAROE) to express our deep concern regarding reports that twenty European governments, including the Netherlands, have urged the European Union to engage in negotiations with the Taliban for the return of rejected Afghan asylum seekers.
Given the current human rights crisis, the widespread poverty, and the complete absence of personal security under Taliban rule, any forced return of Afghan nationals to Afghanistan would constitute a grave violation of humanitarian principles and an act contrary to the European Convention on Human Rights.
Afghanistan remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world, particularly for women, human rights defenders, journalists, and former government employees. Deporting individuals to a regime that systematically persecutes its own citizens cannot be justified under any political or migration policy framework.
We also note with alarm that the German government is reportedly in direct talks with the Taliban and appears to be approaching a formal agreement. FAROE strongly condemns this development, as it risks legitimizing an oppressive regime and undermining Europe’s long-standing commitment to human rights and democratic values.
We respectfully urge you, as the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to:
- Reject any cooperation or negotiation with the Taliban regarding the forced return of Afghan refugees.
- Uphold the EU’s obligations under international and European human rights law to protect those fleeing persecution.
- Engage with Afghan civil society and diaspora organizations to develop humane and rights-based approaches to the Afghan refugee situation.
Your leadership at this critical moment is essential to ensuring that the European Union remains a defender of human dignity and justice.
With sincere respect,
Ali Daliry, chairperson
Federation of Afghan Organizations in Europe (FAROE)