Mohammad Tahir Zuhair

Mohammad Tahir Zuhair is an Afghan cultural figure, writer, and former Minister of Culture and Information of Afghanistan. Over his career he held a series of public roles, including governor of Bamyan province, and played a significant part in Afghanistan’s cultural and public life. Because of his position and public engagement, he became a high-risk individual after the Taliban takeover in August 2021.

Case background and support provided

Mohammad Tahir Zuhair contacted AFI-ILA after the Taliban takeover, facing serious security concerns tied to his former public role. His profile and his opposition to the Taliban meant his case required a careful and highly sensitive approach; in the early period he spent time in hiding under significant risk.

From 2022 onward, AFI-ILA maintained contact with him, assembled the necessary documentation, and prepared his case. As with other Afghan at-risk individuals, the work extended over several years. AFI-ILA submitted the relevant information through the appropriate channels to the German authorities, including the Federal Foreign Office, and his case was introduced to the German government through the Bundesaufnahmeprogramm Afghanistan (BAP).

Following Germany’s approval, AFI-ILA supported the relocation from Afghanistan to Pakistan, providing coordination and guidance through this critical stage. Once the family received their visas, they were able to travel to Germany in 2025. After their arrival, support continued with integration assistance, administrative processes, and help in establishing their new life.