Sweden reduces its presence in the embassy in Kabul

The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has decided to limit the number of employees at the embassy in Kabul, as announced by Foreign Minister Anne Linde. The minister indicated that a special crisis management group has been activated.

There are well-prepared preparations for the evacuation of embassy staff, which may become relevant in a short time. The safety of embassy staff is a top priority. The State Department’s Crisis Management Group has been activated,” Lindy (S) wrote in an email to TT.

Earlier today, it was announced that Denmark and Norway will temporarily close their embassies in Kabul. Finland, like Sweden, brings parts of its employees home.

He should be protected

The decision to reduce the diplomatic presence in Afghanistan by several countries comes as the Taliban seize power in cities closer to the capital, Kabul.

According to international conventions, embassies and their staff should enjoy special protection, even during conflicts.

– Michael Paz, professor of international law at the University of Gothenburg, says the only conclusion that can be drawn from countries that have repatriated employees is that the advanced Taliban is expected to not respect that.

It can be changed quickly

Paz said the State Department’s decision on Friday night may be due to decisions made by other countries.

– Peer pressure can be a bit, and it looks bad if you stay. Or they received additional information which means the evacuation is appropriate, he says.

The Taliban attack was expected by many experts. Surprisingly is the rapid pace of progress.

– This means that all decisions made by Sweden are temporary and may change every hour. Michael Baz says it’s going fast.