German Government Advances Policies on Syrian Refugee Returns Amid Political Debate

The German government is intensifying efforts to manage the return and deportation of Syrian refugees following the end of the Syrian civil war in late 2024. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared that there are "no reasons for asylum in Germany" now that the civil war has concluded, signaling a policy shift towards encouraging returns and deportations for Syrians residing in Germany. Merz emphasized that those refusing to return voluntarily could face deportation in the near future, a stance that has sparked criticism from coalition partners such as the SPD, Greens, and Left party.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who recently visited Syria, drew a stark comparison between Syria's current desolation and Germany in 1945, stating, "Syrien sieht schlimmer aus als Deutschland 1945," but he maintains the government's position on deporting criminals and facilitating voluntary returns. Wadephul also noted the difficulties and current impossibility of a rapid return for all refugees, despite increased numbers returning voluntarily—around 3,000 since Assad's regime fell—with 476 departures supported in October alone.

Approximately 951,406 Syrians live in Germany as of August 2025, making them the third largest foreign group. Of these, 299,730 are employed, significantly contributing to sectors like healthcare, critical in alleviating labor shortages. Naturalizations have also increased, with 83,185 Syrians granted citizenship in the past year. Nevertheless, about 10,700 Syrians remain subject to deportation, primarily focusing on those with criminal records. The government is streamlining deportation processes and negotiating return agreements with Syria while ensuring no individual is sent back to countries where they face torture or inhumane treatment.

Political tensions have arisen within the ruling coalition and among CDU/CSU ranks over Wadephul's remarks and the government's approach. CDU/CSU parliamentary leader Jens Spahn expressed frustration over delays in clarifying Wadephul's comments, which overshadowed the coalition's broader achievements on immigration policy. Meanwhile, the government balances promoting the return of unemployed but employable Syrians in Germany and maintaining integration successes for those employed.

This evolving policy landscape underscores the complexities Germany faces as it navigates refugee integration, humanitarian considerations, and political pressures in managing its Syrian population.