European countries are increasingly pushing for the repatriation of Syrian refugees, but the United Nations warns that Syria remains unstable and dangerous after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen stressed that European nations should not rush the repatriation of refugees, citing ongoing conflicts in the northeast and Israeli bombings inside Syria, which continue to destabilize the region.
Syria has been in chaos for days following Assad’s overthrow, with continued fighting and an expanding buffer zone. Pedersen stated that while many Syrians want to return home, the challenges of survival, the catastrophic humanitarian situation, and a collapsed economy make it unsafe. He called on international actors, including Israel, to refrain from military intervention to avoid further complicating Syria’s transformation.
The political changes in Syria have led several European governments, including Austria and Croatia, to suspend asylum applications for Syrians. Austria’s Minister of the Interior Gerhard Karner ordered a suspension of asylum processing and began preparations for “ordered repatriation and deportation” to Syria. Croatia followed suit, as did other EU countries, awaiting clarity on Syria’s political situation.
Meanwhile, Turkey has opened its borders to facilitate the return of over 3 million Syrian migrants currently residing in Turkey. President Erdogan stated that conditions in Syria are improving, claiming that repression under Assad is over.
Pedersen emphasized that the international community must support Syrians’ return process but also warned against military actions, particularly Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian military equipment, which could hinder the peace process.
As the situation unfolds, new interim Syrian leadership has emerged, with former rebels taking charge. Muhamed al-Bashir has assumed the role of acting Prime Minister, leading a temporary government supported by former rebels.
