Introduction / History

Afghans came to Germany in the first half of the 20th century, usually as rug merchants. They were well educated, and most lived in Hamburg. After the USSR invaded Afghanistan in 1979 there have been numerous waves of Afghan refugees fleeing for safety. Today more are arriving to evade the wrath of the Islamicist government.

Most Afghan refugees have wound up in either neighboring Pakistan or Iran, but some have made their way to the more peaceful shores of European countries including Germany.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Afghan refugees are desperate to get away from the violence in their own country and to re-locate to a peaceful land. Those with marketable skills are usually able to relocate while those without such skills are not welcome in Germany. The latter group often gets stuck in refugee camps. Germany has a strong preference for those who not only have marketable skills but also those who are political refugees. At times the German government has tried to get Afghans to return to their country.

A high percentage of the Afghans in Germany have been out of their country of origin for many years, often for most of their lives. This means some are acculturated. Those who don’t associate with people outside Afghan circles don’t do well in their new environment.

What Are Their Beliefs?

There are three large ethnic groups in Afghanistan. The Pashtuns and Tajiks are Sunni Muslims, and the Hazaras are Shia. They are dedicated to the religious system we call Islam, though they also adhere to pre-Islamic beliefs as well.

What Are Their Needs?

It is not helping anyone when refugees cannot contribute to the economy of the host country. The Afghans in Germany desperately need job training and the opportunity to do something constructive. Christian believers can provide these services to Afghans.

Prayer Items

Pray for the fervent believers to reach out in faith and love to the Muslim Afghan people.
Pray for a spiritual hunger among the Afghans that will be satisfied by none other than the only Savior, Jesus Christ.
Pray for a movement to Christ among Afghans to spread far and wide.
For the light of Christ to shine upon the Afghan people in Germany.

Scripture Prayers for the Afghani, general in Germany.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghans_in_Germany
https://www.bpb.de/themen/migration-integration/laenderprofile/english-version-country-profiles/288934/afghan-migration-to-germany-history-and-current-debates/