Austria Begins Deportation Proceedings for Thousands of Syrian Refugees
In a significant policy shift, the Austrian Interior Ministry has announced the start of deportation proceedings for 2,400 Syrian refugees. This decision follows the fall of the Assad regime in Syria last December, with Interior Minister Gerhard Karner unveiling a new set of measures aimed at suspending asylum decisions for Syrians and facilitating their deportation or voluntary repatriation.
Significant Drop in Asylum Applications
The ministry reported a dramatic decline in the number of asylum applications from Syrians. In January, the number of new asylum requests dropped by 55% compared to the same month in 2024, with only 618 Syrians seeking refuge in Austria, down from 1,393 in January of the previous year.
While new asylum applications are being registered, the ministry clarified that they are not being processed at this time. The Austrian government also reported that 80 Syrians have voluntarily chosen to return to their homeland since the fall of the Assad regime.
Financial Support for Voluntary Return
To assist Syrian refugees in returning voluntarily, the Federal Agency for Care and Support has held around 440 counseling sessions. Those who opt to return to Syria can receive financial aid amounting to 1,000 euros. However, by agreeing to this repatriation, they forfeit their protection status in Austria.
Suspension of Asylum Procedures
Minister Gerhard Karner emphasized that the suspension of asylum procedures would remain in effect for Syrian nationals. He stated that Syria now needs its citizens to help rebuild the country, making it impossible to justify granting permanent asylum. He further argued that asylum is meant to be temporary, and those without valid reasons for protection should not be granted asylum. The priority for deportation will be given to criminals and individuals who refuse to integrate or contribute to the workforce.
Criticism from NGOs
This shift in policy has faced criticism from NGOs such as Kritas and Diakoni. These organizations argue that the situation in Syria is still unstable and complex, making it difficult to justify the repatriation of Syrians at this time.
Since the fall of the Assad regime, there have been growing calls throughout Europe to begin repatriating Syrian refugees. Many EU countries have frozen the processing of Syrian asylum applications, citing the ongoing developments in Syria, particularly the rise of new forces in the region.
