Syria’s Security Situation Remains Volatile, German Report Finds
A confidential report by the German Foreign Office, obtained by the Spiegel, paints a dire picture of the security situation in Syria, even after the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime last year. The report, which is expected to serve as a guide for German authorities and courts in handling asylum and deportation cases involving Syrian nationals, highlights the ongoing volatility and danger in the war-torn country.
The 29-page document, compiled as of the end of March, notes that while the new government has implemented some reforms, such as the dissolution of notorious “anti-terror courts” the overall situation remains perilous. Armed groups, including remnants of the former regime’s militias, continue to kill people and the life of ordinary citizens in all regions of the country remains extremely dangerous.
According to the report, nearly 4,000 people were killed in conflict-related violence from January to March and government supporters are still involved in violent crimes. The report also notes that there are still arbitrary arrests by Syrian security forces and that the death penalty remains enshrined in the country’s constitution. Furthermore, the report highlights the discrimination faced by sexual minorities and the lack of practical implementation of a ban on torture and the protection of human dignity.
It is unclear what conclusions the German government will draw from the report, as the Ministry of the Interior, responsible for asylum issues, has yet to comment. The report’s findings may complicate the government’s plans to resume deportations to Syria, as outlined in the coalition agreement.