UN blockade: Why Syrians should not return home!

UN blockade: Why Syrians should not return home!

Spectacular developments from the Middle East! The HTS militia has taken over the political helm in Syria, ushering in a new era. Things got heated in Damascus when the UN special envoy Geir Pedersen met the new executive team led by the former nickname giant Mohammed al-Jolani, now known as Ahmed al-Sharaa. During this historic meeting, topics such as reconstruction and, above all, the explosive issue of the return of Syrian refugees were on the agenda.

The start of the Syrian civil war led to the flight of over five million Syrians, who primarily sought refuge in Europe. Germany opened its borders in 2015 under Chancellor Angela Merkel, which led to the admission of numerous Syrian families. Given recent developments, a return to their homeland would theoretically be possible, but there are strong voices against this. So reported Home courier that the UN only wants to support return on a voluntary basis. At the same time, many of these refugees receive social benefits, which reduces the incentive to return to an unsafe environment.

An unexpected power structure and its effects

The HTS militia's lightning capture of the Syrian capital on December 8 made headlines around the world. The final overthrow of Assad led to the establishment of a transitional government, while Assad himself fled to Russia. But the challenge remains monumental: The new leadership is calling for international support to renew the constitution and rebuild the country. Despite the positive mood, skeptics like Pedersen reveal that immense difficulties remain, affecting both territorial unity and economic recovery.

Ahmed al-Sharaa now appears as a central actor as he discusses the “immense changes” with Pedersen. The HTS leader sees it as essential to secure economic stability and political support to ensure the safe return of refugees, according to a report by [ daily news ]. But it remains to be seen how the international community will position itself on these new arrangements.

The fight for asylum – between facts and interests

While the discussion about the return of Syrian refugees is passionate, the role of the asylum industry in Europe remains controversial. In many places, over 500,000 Syrians in Germany receive citizen's benefit and interest in returning to their war-torn homeland is dwindling. This migration has, in turn, fueled a machine that profits from government spending, which could delay the repatriation of refugees. Shabia Mantoo from the UN Refugee Commission emphasizes that forced asylum should not occur as asylum should be a temporary protection.

The coming months will be crucial. Whether Syria will successfully find its way back to stability and unity depends not only on internal reforms, but also on the international support for efforts to restore order and security. Presentations from both sides make it clear: There is enormous pressure on the new ruler al-Sharaa to implement economic and political measures that could actually enable the safe return of the many refugees.