A Member of the European Parliament, Hannah Neumann, has raised serious concerns over the European Union’s recent engagement with Taliban representatives in Brussels, arguing that the discussions risk moving beyond limited technical cooperation and could contribute to the political normalisation of the Taliban without sufficient accountability.
Speaking on Tuesday, Neumann criticised the European Commission’s description of the talks as “technical engagement,” stating that the dialogue appeared to carry broader political implications. She warned that engagement with the Taliban must not overlook concerns related to human rights, security, and the protection of Afghan citizens, particularly those who fled the group’s rule.
Neumann said the European Commission had indicated that discussions with Taliban representatives were focused on matters related to the return of individuals convicted of serious crimes, including terrorism, murder, and rape. However, she pointed to reports from Germany suggesting that authorities were considering the deportation of Afghan nationals who do not have criminal convictions, raising questions about the scope and implications of any future cooperation.
The European lawmaker also expressed concern over the possibility that Afghan consular services in European countries could be transferred to Taliban control. According to Neumann, the Taliban has linked the return of Afghan nationals to the restoration and functioning of consular services, prompting concerns that European engagement could unintentionally facilitate the group’s expansion of influence abroad.
“This is not simply a technical matter,” Neumann warned, highlighting that decisions regarding consular representation could have significant consequences for thousands of Afghans residing in Europe, including those who left Afghanistan due to security concerns and opposition to Taliban rule.
Earlier this month, the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry stated that its delegation’s discussions with European Union officials in Brussels focused on restoring consular services for Afghans living in Europe, strengthening relations with European countries, and addressing issues related to rejected asylum applications.
Neumann argued that transferring consular responsibilities to the Taliban would extend beyond administrative cooperation and could create risks for Afghan communities in Europe. She warned of possible concerns related to surveillance, pressure, and what she described as “transnational repression” against Afghans who oppose or fear the Taliban.
The MEP called on the European Commission to provide greater transparency regarding the purpose and future direction of its engagement with the Taliban. She urged clarification on key issues, including which Afghan nationals would be subject to return, what safeguards would be established to protect Afghans living in Europe, and what commitments or concessions the Taliban would receive in exchange for cooperation.
Neumann stressed that any engagement policy must be accompanied by clear safeguards, accountability measures, and protection mechanisms to ensure that the rights and security of Afghan citizens remain central to European decisions.
The debate highlights growing concerns within European institutions over how to balance practical engagement on migration and consular issues with broader questions of recognition, legitimacy, human rights, and accountability in relations with the Taliban.
