Belgium issues visas to Taliban delegation for EU migration talks

Belgium has issued visas to a Taliban delegation to take part in a migration meeting in Brussels, paving the way for the first visit by Taliban representatives to an EU-organized event since the group returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021.

The planned talks have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which argue that engagement with the Taliban risks undermining the European Union’s commitment to human rights.

However, the Belgian government said it approved five visas for members of the delegation after security assessments found no evidence that the individuals posed a threat. The visas are strictly limited, allowing entry only to Belgium, not the wider Schengen Area, and are valid for a single day.

According to foreign media, Belgian officials have refused to disclose the exact date of the visit, citing security concerns. However, EU sources say the meeting was expected to take place immediately after the visas were issued.

According to European officials, the discussions will focus on migration and the possible return of Afghan nationals who are not entitled to remain in the European Union. In May, the European Commission announced “its intention to invite Taliban officials to Brussels in the near future for discussions related to the return of migrants to Afghanistan.”

The European Commission has stressed that the meeting is being held at a technical level and does not constitute formal recognition of the Taliban government. EU officials have repeatedly said the talks are intended to address practical migration issues rather than diplomatic relations with Afghanistan’s rulers.

The issue remains highly sensitive because the Taliban have faced widespread international criticism since regaining power. They imposed harsh restrictions on women and girls, including limits on education, employment and freedom of movement.