Approach in Berlin: Syrian Christians in danger after Assad-Sturz!

Approach in Berlin: Syrian Christians in danger after Assad-Sturz!

Berlin, Deutschland - Damascus. A dark chapter comes to an end, but what comes afterwards? The fall of the Assad regime in Syria ensures mixed feelings worldwide. On the one hand, there is relief in the air, because brutal rule that oppressed a large part of the Syrian people has come to an end. But the uncertainty is growing: Jihadist militias, especially the Haiat Tahrir al-Scham (HTS) group, grows, and concern for the Christian minority, which is about 10 percent of the population, grows. So far, these were under the protection of the Assad regime, which even belongs to a minority, the Alawites. But now, in the middle of political upheavals, the question arises: will the Situation of Christians improve or worsen?

Pierre-Jean Luizard, a Middle East-Expert, warns that the Christian communities are on the edge of the extinguishing could . His dark forecast is based on his conviction that the decades of political system tilts, which has so far given Christians at least a minimum level of security. HTS has close connections to jihadist ideologies that the Christians could threaten.

a fragile protection for minorities?

The rebel groups are greatly and promise the protection of minorities. But how much are these promises really worth? According to the Missio Catholic Aid Agency, there are currently no documented attacks against Christians or other religious minorities. The chairman Dirk Bingener was optimistic, but admitted the volatile nature of the current political landscape. The German Bishops' Conference remains vigilant and desperately tries to keep contact with the Syrian local churches and personalities such as Patriarch Johannes X. Jasidschi.

Bente Scheller, a political scientist, emphasizes that the communicated commitments of the militia leaders alone are not sufficient. It is not just about empty words, but about concrete deeds if it is to ensure that minorities such as Christians, Yazidis and Alawites are really protected and integrated into the new political landscape.

a fearsome exodus

At the same time, the Exodus of the Christians from Syria continues. Not only the current change of power contributes to uncertainty, but also the general situation of Christians in the Middle East, which has deteriorated for decades. Pope Francis once demanded more distance from the Syrian church to the Assad government. Historically, the political system in Syria relies on the protection of minorities against the Sunni majority. But this protection shows cracks and questions the future of many Christian communities.

The international community and organizations such as the “Church in Need” tirelessly demand the preservation of religious freedom and respect for fundamental rights. The fragile balance must be maintained in order to create a safe environment for all religious groups.

The fear of a disappearance of the Christian presence in the Middle East grows. as well as Pierre-Jean Luizard made it clear in a statement is real that Christians as a minority in the newly created power system Marginalized or even could be wiped out. The future of Christians in the Middle East hangs in the suspension, while political rank games and cultural conflicts determine everyday life.