Surge in Asylum Applications by Afghan Women in Germany Linked to EU Court Ruling

Surge in Asylum Applications by Afghan Women in Germany Linked to EU Court Ruling
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The number of asylum applications submitted by Afghan women in Germany has more than doubled in recent weeks, according to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), InfoMigrants reported. BAMF figures show that around 3,100 applications were filed in July, compared with roughly 1,300 in June.

The increase contrasts with an overall decline in asylum applications from all nationalities in recent months. Since early 2025, monthly applications by Afghan women have risen steadily — from under 1,000 in the first quarter to about 1,200–1,300 in the second quarter — before the latest sharp jump. Authorities expect total applications this year to exceed 10,000 in August.

Officials attribute part of the rise to an October 2024 ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ), which determined that the Taliban’s systematic oppression of women constitutes persecution under international refugee law. As a result, Afghan women now automatically qualify for refugee protection based on gender and nationality.

Many who previously held lesser statuses, such as subsidiary protection, have filed follow-up applications to gain full refugee recognition. Nearly half of the 9,600 Afghan women’s applications recorded so far in 2025 are secondary filings.

The increase comes amid reports of worsening conditions for women in Afghanistan, where the Taliban have ruled under strict Sharia law for four years, restricting women’s rights and public participation. Neighboring countries such as Iran and Pakistan have also intensified deportations of Afghan nationals, prompting some to seek asylum in Europe.