The swift reaction of European politicians to Bashar al-Assad’s visit to Moscow, where discussions about the return of Syrian refugees were initiated, can be viewed charitably as prompt, but more accurately as embarrassing and undignified. While the temporary suspension of Syrian asylum applications by agencies like the Swedish Migration Agency is standard procedure during rapid geopolitical shifts, the demands for repatriation of already settled Syrians are deeply troubling. This reflects a broader, unsettling trend within European politics.
The calls for repatriation, unsurprisingly emanating from far-right parties like the Sweden Democrats and their counterparts across the continent, align with their core anti-immigration stance. However, the participation of mainstream parties, such as leading members of the German Christian Democrats (CDU), advocating for chartered flights and financial incentives for returning Syrians, is far more concerning. Similarly, the Austrian Interior Minister’s call for preparations for “orderly deportation” signals a worrying shift in the political landscape. This normalisation of anti-refugee rhetoric from traditionally centrist parties is a dangerous development, potentially paving the way for more discriminatory policies.
The demands for return ignore the complex reality facing Syrian refugees. Many have lived in Europe for nearly a decade, building lives, establishing families, and contributing to their communities. These are their homes, and forcing them back to Syria would be a cruel uprooting of their lives. Moreover, Syria remains a devastated nation, its infrastructure, economy, and social fabric in ruins. A vast majority of the population depends on humanitarian aid, underscoring the dire conditions on the ground. Repatriation under these circumstances would be tantamount to condemning these individuals to further hardship and insecurity.
The arguments for repatriation often revolve around preventing further migration to Europe. However, this short-sighted approach fails to consider the broader implications of destabilizing Syria further. The country remains vulnerable to extremism and potential resurgence of conflict, posing significant security risks for Europe. Forcing refugees back to a volatile environment could exacerbate these risks, potentially creating new waves of displacement and contributing to the growth of terrorist organizations.
A more sensible and humane approach would prioritize stabilizing Syria through diplomatic and economic support. Europe’s focus should be on fostering a stable and democratic environment in Syria, not on expelling those who have sought refuge within its borders. This approach would not only be morally sound but also serve Europe’s long-term security interests by addressing the root causes of migration and instability.
Instead of resorting to knee-jerk reactions and politically expedient measures, Europe should demonstrate true leadership by focusing on long-term solutions. This includes investing in Syria’s reconstruction, supporting democratic institutions, and providing humanitarian aid. Ultimately, a stable and prosperous Syria is in everyone’s best interest, including Europe’s, as it reduces the likelihood of further conflict and displacement. Forcing refugees back to a broken country achieves nothing but compounding the suffering of those who have already endured so much, and undermines the very principles of human rights and international protection that Europe claims to uphold. This short-sighted approach is not only morally reprehensible but strategically counterproductive.
