A sharp decline in the recognition of Syrian asylum seekers as eligible for protection by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is raising critical questions about Germany’s evolving policy towards Syrian refugees and fueling a contentious political debate. According to data released to “Welt am Sonntag” BAMF processed 3,134 Syrian asylum cases in October, with a staggering 0.8% resulting in the granting of any form of protection. This figure encompasses a single individual granted asylum under the German constitution, ten receiving refugee status, nine receiving subsidiary protection and six qualifying for suspension of deportation.
The recent shift represents a significant deviation from previous procedures. Following the ousting of the Assad regime in December 2021, BAMF had effectively suspended processing Syrian asylum applications, with exceptions for those accused of crimes. Restarted in late September, the revised processing focuses on young, employable and unaccompanied male applicants, as well as those whose claims have been pending for over 21 months. To date, 2,869 Syrians have voluntarily returned to their homeland through the Federal Government’s repatriation program.
The prospect of deportations to Syria is generating significant political friction. Integration Minister Natalie Pawlik (SPD) has indicated that any potential deportations currently under consideration within the federal government are likely to be limited to criminals and individuals deemed to pose a threat. This stance aligns with the coalition agreement. However, several prominent figures are advocating for a more expansive approach.
Armin Schuster, Interior Minister of Saxony (CDU), emphasized the “temporary” nature of the initial Syrian refugee intake, a perspective originally voiced by then-Chancellor Angela Merkel. Similarly, Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Hermann (CSU) argued that Syrians ultimately bear responsibility for rebuilding their own nation. While acknowledging the potential for successful integration, Hermann suggested a greater emphasis on facilitated repatriation efforts.
This divergence in views reflects a broader debate within German politics. The coalition agreement, negotiated by the SPD and CDU/CSU, originally stipulated a phased approach to deportations, initially targeting criminals and potential security threats. The current restrictive processing rate and the push for expanded repatriation options are prompting concerns about the fairness and long-term sustainability of Germany’s policies toward a population deeply impacted by ongoing civil conflict. The debate risks exacerbating anxieties amongst the vast majority of Syrians who have resided legally in Germany for years with valid residency permits, many of whom are ostensibly integrated into German society.