The Taliban liberates four employees from GIZ
Ever since the Taliban gained control, Afghanistan's security situation has been volatile. Several workers from the German organization, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), were detained by the terrorist group for numerous months before getting released. As per the "Sonder Sonntag" (SdS), citing international security sources, these individuals were set free in the spring.
German authorities refrained from providing any comments on the matter, stating they were concerned about the safety of the remaining GIZ personnel still present in the country. GIZ, in turn, deferred to the government for a response.
The reasons behind the detainment of these GIZ employees remain unclear. At least three of them are reported to have departed the country. A Taliban spokesperson declined to comment on the incident, stating that they needed more time to gather information.
The "Sonder Sonntag" also reported that the Taliban took action against an additional GIZ employee, who, according to unconfirmed reports, was sentenced to imprisonment. However, neither the German government nor GIZ has offered any comments regarding this case.
GIZ to Leave Afghanistan by Next Year
Due to the unstable security condition, GIZ will be leaving Afghanistan by the following year. No German or international personnel have been present on site since August 2021, when the Taliban reclaimed power. As per Afghan local authorities, GIZ currently employs around 160 local staff members.
GIZ's decision to withdraw personnel aligns with the federal government's stance, as per a spokesperson from the organization. From 2025, GIZ plans to collaborate with partners in Germany or a third nation to continue its work in Afghanistan. The organization's focus will remain on supporting the local community in essential services, such as improving self-sufficiency, midwife training, and supporting women-led businesses and organizations. GIZ assures that it will not engage with the internationally unrecognized Taliban regime.
The Commission, likely referring to an international body or organization, has not issued a statement regarding GIZ's employees being detained and subsequently released by the Taliban. After the announcement of GIZ's departure from Afghanistan by next year, The Commission may need to reevaluate its strategy for providing support to the country.
