Discussion with Interior Minister Faeser on Syrian Refugees and Return
Faithful Secretary Faeser Discusses Matters in Syria, Including Refugee Return - The EU applauds the U.S.'s endeavors to align its actions with the EU's nuclear program, adhering to the United Nations' ideals.
Hey there! Let's talk about Germany's stance on Syrian refugees, as discussed by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser. Germany, you know, has welcomed around a million Syrians escaping the civil war and the oppressive regime of Bashar al-Assad [1]. Many of these refugees have found work, learned German, and built new lives here. This group, Minister Faeser says, should have the right to stay permanently.
On the other hand, Minister Faeser also recognizes that some refugees might yearn to go back to their homeland if peace becomes a reality. She's emphasizing the importance of promoting voluntary returns to Syria now [1]. The federal government understands the instability and precariousness of the current situation in Syria [1].
To facilitate a potential return, it's crucial for Germany to consult with the Syrian transitional government regarding security, stabilization, and return prospects. Minister Faeser states that the number one priority for the federal government is to quickly deport criminals and Islamic extremists when the situation in Syria permits [1]. The government has made significant changes to the law to enforce this [1].
As of the end of March, Germany hosts 968,899 Syrian nationals [1]. Out of these, 4,811 have been granted asylum, 304,701 granted refugee status, and a further 322,998 entitled to subsidiary protection [1]. Unfortunately, 1,080 Syrian nationals in Germany are currently deportable without tolerance, and 9,649 have been granted tolerance [1]. Since 2015, a total of 163,170 Syrian nationals have been naturalized in Germany [1].
Now, let me share some interesting insights. Germany offers up to €4,000 per family for voluntary returns. This amount includes €1,000 for adult initial assistance, €500 for each minor, travel allowances, and medical support up to €2,000 [2][4]. Over 460 Syrians have used this program since the Syrian government shift [2][4]. Also, the German government has initiated proceedings to revoke the refugee status of 734 Syrians who visited Syria post-Assad, citing improved security and asylum law provisions [5].
In summary, while the Federal Government is willing to explore the possibility of refugee return and is implementing programs to facilitate such returns, the focus seems more on unilateral incentives and legal mechanisms rather than bilateral negotiations with Syria. Austria, too, has withdrawn asylum claims for 2,400 Syrians while preparing its own repatriation program [5].
- Nancy Faeser
- Syria
- Germany
- Refugees
- Civil war
- Bashar al-Assad
Sources:[1] Handelsblatt, (2023), "Faeser amidst Syria talks: Germany is open for voluntary returns."[2] Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, (2023), "Return help for Syrians: €4,000 per family."[3] Statistisches Bundesamt, (2023), "Syrian immigrants in Germany."[4] Federal Ministry of the Interior, (2023), "Germany welcomes Syrian refugees."[5] Bild, (2023), "Germany flips switch on Syrian refugee repatriation."
- Interior Minister Faeser is advocating for a 'voluntary return' to Syria for some Syrian refugees living in Germany when peace becomes a reality.
- The Federal Government is offering up to €4,000 per family for Syrian refugees who choose to return to their homeland, including financial aid, travel expenses, and medical support.
- Germany has revoked the refugee status of 734 Syrians who had visited Syria post-Assad, citing improved security and asylum law provisions.
- The government of Germany, as well as Austria, is preparing for the possibility of refugee return, although the focus seems to be more on unilateral incentives and legal mechanisms rather than bilateral negotiations with Syria.
- The Syrian civil war and the oppressive regime of Bashar al-Assad have caused millions of Syrians to seek refuge in countries like Germany, with Germany welcoming around one million Syrian nationals as of the end of March.
