Merz wants to send 80% of Syrians home from Germany. He has already been heavily criticized
German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, after a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on March 30, stated that he wants about 80% of Syrian refugees living in the country to return home within three years. He believes that after the end of the civil war in Syria, many of them no longer need protection. Many, even within the country, however, disagree with him, writes Welt.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Photo: AP Photo/Markus Schreiber
A wave of criticism erupted in Germany after Chancellor Friedrich Merz's statements that up to 80% of Syrians currently living in the country should return home within the next three years. Not only opposition politicians, but also partners in the governing coalition, spoke out against such words.
Representatives of the Social Democratic Party noted that specific figures and deadlines should not be named, as this creates expectations that are difficult to realize. They also emphasized that many Syrians have already successfully integrated into German society: they work, including in in-demand professions, pay taxes, and have even obtained citizenship.
Particular attention is drawn to the role of Syrians in medicine. A large number of Syrian doctors and nurses work in Germany, and their departure could negatively affect the healthcare system.
Representatives of the "Greens" also sharply criticized the Chancellor's statements, noting that the situation in Syria remains unstable, and for many people, return is currently impossible.
Statistics, however, show that most Syrians who came to Germany as refugees are not eager to return: only a small number of people have gone back to their homeland recently. Therefore, reaching the 80% mark in a short period is practically impossible.
Experts believe that Merz's plans look unrealistic, as only a few return voluntarily to Syria. Therefore, achieving such a large proportion of returns will be very difficult. Exaggerated expectations with modest results will damage the credibility of Merz's government and provide ammunition to his opponents.
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