The Human Rights Activists Union (HRAU) has raised alarm over what it describes as a surge in lobbying efforts by individuals attempting to "whitewash and legitimise the Taliban regime" across Western countries.
The organisation has specifically called on European nations—particularly Germany—to thoroughly and seriously review the immigration files of those suspected of lobbying on behalf of the Taliban.
In a statement released on Tuesday, HRAU expressed deep concern over “a new phase of targeted and organised movements abroad aimed at the soft occupation of Afghanistan’s diplomatic missions by Taliban appointees.”
The union warned that individuals presenting themselves as journalists, analysts, or civil society activists are engaging in covert lobbying for the Taliban. According to HRAU, these individuals operate under the guise of media, civil, or seemingly neutral activities while actively working to sanitise the image of a regime it described as “misogynistic, ethnocentric, and a blatant violator of human rights.”
HRAU highlighted that some of these so-called activists freely travel to Kabul and even participate in ceremonies glorifying the Taliban’s “suicide brigades.” It alleged that such actors are working in direct coordination with Taliban officials to manipulate public perception of the current situation in Afghanistan.
The group issued a strong appeal to international human rights bodies, independent media, and European governments—most notably the German federal government—to take swift and firm action. It urged authorities to “Thoroughly review the immigration cases of certain individuals and, by enforcing legal and regulatory restrictions, prevent their political and propaganda abuses on European soil, in order to curb the spread of extremism.”
This statement comes amid reports that the Taliban has taken control of several Afghan diplomatic missions across Europe. In an apparent attempt to project a peaceful and modern image to the international community, the Taliban has allowed influencers—including YouTubers, celebrities, and even adult film stars—to visit Afghanistan and post content promoting the country as safe and welcoming.
Many of these social media personalities—particularly women—share photos and videos from various Afghan provinces. However, such portrayals stand in stark contrast to the domestic reality, where Afghan women and girls remain banned from many public and recreational spaces, such as the popular Band-e Amir National Park.
