Members of the European Parliament and local activists are urging Belgian officials to block visas for a Taliban delegation invited to Brussels by the European Commission. The delegation is intended to discuss migration issues, but critics argue the visit is unacceptable, with some describing the move as exceeding “the limits of the tolerable,” according to reports from local media.
Why European Lawmakers are Opposing the Visas
European MEPs have specifically called on Maxime Prévot to deny the necessary travel documents to the invited Taliban representatives. According to reports from La Libre.be and Euractiv, the tension centers on whether granting legal entry to the delegation constitutes an undue legitimization of the group.
The European Commission initiated the process by inviting the delegation to discuss migration, but the decision has sparked a diplomatic and ethical dispute over the issuance of visas by the Belgian government.
Protests and Public Backlash in Brussels
Public opposition manifested in Brussels on Wednesday morning, where activists organized a demonstration to voice their refusal of the delegation’s arrival. According to BX1, the action was a direct response to the planned visit.
“It exceeds the limits of the tolerable.”
This sentiment, reported by Le Soir, reflects the broader criticism from those who believe that hosting the delegation contradicts fundamental human rights values.
Current Status of the Delegation’s Entry
The administrative process for the visit is already underway. According to DHnet, the Belgian government has already received the official list of names for the Taliban delegation from the European Commission.
The final decision on whether these individuals will be granted the visas required to enter the Schengen Area now rests with the Belgian authorities, amid ongoing pressure from both legislative members and the public.
