Press Article: EU Suspends Syrian Asylum Claims Amid Uncertainty Following Assad’s Fall
In a significant shift, several EU countries, including France and Germany, have suspended asylum claims from Syrian refugees following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This decision affects thousands, with estimates suggesting around 47,000 asylum applications are on hold. Euronews spoke to Syrian refugee Fadi Zaim in Berlin, who has built a successful catering business since arriving in Germany in 2013. He emphasizes his love for Berlin and the community support he received, which helped him integrate and thrive.
Zaim stresses that despite Assad’s removal from power, Syria remains unsafe due to the remnants of his regime, arguing that the situation is still precarious for returning refugees. He calls for EU member states to maintain support and integration programs for refugees while also facilitating pathways for those who can safely return.
Amnesty International criticizes the asylum suspensions, insisting they contradict EU directives and obligations to protect refugees. Italy, despite processing fewer claims than other EU nations, is under scrutiny after freezing applications, a move condemned by human rights advocates. The NGO Relief for Syrian Refugees echoes these sentiments, insisting that the situation in Syria is still too volatile for large-scale returns.
While Germany’s Vice Chancellor suggests that non-working refugees should consider returning, Zaim advocates for better integration efforts to access the job market. He highlights the ongoing labor shortage in Germany, arguing that skilled refugees could fill vacant positions if given the chance.
As the situation remains fluid and uncertain, organizations urge caution and emphasize the need for robust measures to protect the rights of Syrian refugees who have been granted international protection.
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Photo credit www.euronews.com
