Germany Suspends Asylum Applications for Syrians Following Assad’s Fall
Berlin: Following the fall of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, Germany has temporarily suspended the asylum application process for Syrian nationals. While the largest Syrian diaspora in Germany has welcomed this new chapter in their country's history, uncertainty over Syria's political future has prompted the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees to put 47,770 applications on hold.
An official from the migration office told Der Spiegel magazine that the suspension is due to Syria’s current political instability and unpredictability.
Since Chancellor Angela Merkel’s open-door refugee policy in 2015-16, Germany has hosted approximately 1.3 million Syrians. However, immigration policies have become stricter in recent years. The issue gained further attention after a stabbing incident in Solingen in August, allegedly committed by a Syrian national, which reignited calls for the deportation of Syrian offenders.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz and opposition leaders have taken firm stances. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), currently leading in polls ahead of February’s federal elections, is actively campaigning for the repatriation of Syrians. CDU MP Jürgen Hardt stated, “It’s time to reassess the situation in Syria.” Jens Spahn suggested offering €1,000 as an incentive for Syrians to voluntarily return.
Neighboring Austria and Greece have also announced suspensions of asylum applications for Syrians.
However, Germany’s Pro Asyl refugee advocacy group has criticized the decision. Spokesperson Tareq Alaows said, “This move will create fear among Syrians and hinder their integration into German society.” He emphasized that Syria remains unsafe and urged the international community to take an active role in building democracy and stability in the war-torn country.
Meanwhile, Syrians in cities like Berlin celebrated Assad’s fall, waving flags and chanting in the streets. Mohammad Al-Masri, a Berlin resident, remarked, “It feels like a dream come true. I can finally think of returning home.”
Despite the celebrations, many Syrians believe a return will only be possible once democracy, justice, and reconstruction are firmly established in Syria.
