No exception: Dutch cabinet refuses special treatment for Afghan evacuees who worked for the Netherlands

Hundreds of Afghans who helped Dutch military, diplomatic and development missions believed they would eventually secure a more permanent future in the Netherlands. Now, after the entry into force of the EU's new asylum and migration rules, many are discovering that a permanent asylum residence permit in The Netherlands is no longer available. Why is the Dutch government refusing to make an exception for a group it once evacuated itself? Does The Hague believe it still has a special responsibility towards these Afghans? And what does the cabinet say about concerns that closer contacts with the Taliban could leave former Afghan employees feeling vulnerable? Read on for the full story.