German media report that the Taliban have appointed a new diplomat to Afghanistan’s embassy in Berlin without prior notice to or approval from the German government, raising questions about diplomatic protocol and recognition.
Public broadcaster ARD reported that the Taliban designated the individual as acting head of mission without coordinating with Germany’s Foreign Ministry. The ministry said it was unaware of the appointment.
According to the report, the newly appointed diplomat previously served in a lower-ranking consular role at the embassy. He has since presented himself in official correspondence with Taliban as chargé d’affaires, effectively assuming leadership of the mission.
Under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the appointment of a head of mission requires the consent of the host country — a step German officials say was not followed in this case.
Taliban have not publicly commented on the reported appointment.
Critics say the move could be seen as a violation of diplomatic norms and an attempt by the Taliban to assert greater control over Afghanistan’s diplomatic missions abroad despite lacking formal international recognition.
The development comes as the Taliban continue to seek broader international engagement more than four years after returning to power. So far, Russia is the only country to have formally recognized Taliban rule, while other countries, including members of the European Union, maintain limited, largely technical engagement without extending official recognition.
If confirmed, the move would mark the first known case in which Taliban have effectively taken control of an embassy of Afghanistan in a European Union country without the host government’s approval.
Taliban have repeatedly called for formal international recognition and expanded diplomatic ties. However, those efforts have been hindered by ongoing concerns from the international community over human rights, the formation of an inclusive government and counterterrorism commitments.
