The European Union faces criticism over its talks with Afghanistan’s Taliban administration. Concerns over human rights, terrorism and migration have renewed debate about the bloc’s approach. European officials met Taliban representatives in Brussels in June 2026. Critics fear migration cooperation could weaken the EU’s commitment to human rights and security.
The meeting reportedly received support from Sweden, Belgium and Germany. Belgium issued visas to a five-member Taliban delegation led by foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi. The visas allowed entry into Belgium for only 24 hours. The meeting aimed to facilitate the return of Afghan nationals from Europe.
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Belgium’s foreign minister opposed the invitation, warning it could legitimise the Taliban administration. However, European Commissioner Magnus Brunner described the talks as technical discussions, not formal recognition. Members of the European Parliament’s human rights subcommittee also criticised the engagement. The Taliban delegation reportedly sought control of Afghan consular offices across Europe in exchange for deportation cooperation.
The EU established five benchmarks after the Taliban returned to power in 2021. These cover counterterrorism, human rights, women’s rights, girls’ education and inclusive government. However, concerns remain over the Taliban’s record in all five areas. Its alleged links with militant groups remain a major obstacle to closer relations.
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Security assessments identify more than 20 terrorist organisations operating in Afghanistan. Estimates suggest up to 13,000 foreign fighters are present in the country. These include around 6,000 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants and 2,000 to 3,000 Islamic State Khorasan Province operatives. Hundreds of Al Qaeda members are also reportedly present.
Pakistan has raised serious concerns about militants operating from Afghan territory. It reported more than 5,300 terrorism incidents and over 1,200 related fatalities in 2025. Pakistani officials also cited more than 60 terrorist camps and staging areas inside Afghanistan. These claims have intensified concerns about regional security and the Taliban’s counterterrorism commitments.
The report also cited attacks linked to militants operating from Afghanistan. In November 2025, attacks originating from Afghanistan killed five Chinese nationals in Tajikistan. Another five people were injured within the same four-day period. EU officials have also warned that terrorist safe havens and financing networks remain active inside Afghanistan.
Human rights concerns remain central to the EU’s policy toward Afghanistan. UNICEF figures cited in the report indicate that more than 2.6 million Afghan girls cannot attend secondary or higher education. Women also face restrictions on employment, movement and participation in public life. These policies continue to raise concerns among international observers.
Ethnic and religious minorities, including Shia Hazaras, reportedly face discrimination. The report also highlights restrictions on religious practices and the treatment of Shia clerics. Pashtuns reportedly occupy around 90% of approximately 1,185 senior Taliban leadership positions. Tajiks hold 5.3%, Uzbeks 2.5% and Hazaras just 0.6%, while women remain excluded.
These figures have intensified concerns about political exclusion under Taliban rule. Supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada retains ultimate authority, leaving little certainty about major policy changes. Meanwhile, the EU faces pressure to balance migration cooperation with its security and human rights commitments. The debate over engagement with the Taliban remains a major challenge for European policymakers.