The topic of returning Syrian refugees has gained momentum within the European Union as member states adopt a tougher stance on migration.
On Wednesday, EU ambassadors convened to discuss strategies for promoting the voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their war-torn homeland. This idea, which has sparked controversy, has gained traction in recent months.
The discussions, led by Hungary, the current holder of the EU Council presidency, were based on a document from the European Commission that highlighted the UN Refugee Agency’s (UNHCR) role in facilitating the return of Syrian refugees, a support system the EU aims to enhance.
Any returns would be strictly voluntary, as the bloc cannot forcibly deport Syrians who are typically granted asylum. Furthermore, the principle of non-refoulement prohibits sending migrants back to countries where they might face persecution, torture, or other forms of mistreatment.
Ambassadors also addressed the lack of diplomatic relations with Bashar al-Assad’s autocratic regime, which has publicly urged its citizens to return. They acknowledged the volatile situation in the Middle East, where ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon have led to a surge of tens of thousands of people moving into Syria.
Since the Syrian Civil War erupted in 2011, millions have fled their homes in search of international protection, with many making their way to Europe. According to the UNHCR, over one million Syrian asylum seekers and refugees currently reside in various European countries, with 59% located in Germany. Other countries hosting significant numbers include Sweden, Austria, Greece, the Netherlands, and France.
Last year, approximately 38,300 Syrian refugees opted to return, though the UNHCR noted that conditions in Syria were still not conducive to safe and dignified large-scale returns. Concerns regarding security, livelihoods, basic services, and housing have contributed to the low repatriation rate, with around 90% of Syrians living in poverty.
Human Rights Watch has raised alarms about the dangers faced by Syrians returning from Lebanon, citing risks of repression, enforced disappearance, torture, and even death in detention at the hands of the Syrian government.
The European Commission shares this assessment, repeatedly stating that current conditions in Syria do not guarantee safe and dignified repatriations. Ongoing talks among member states are expected to continue in the coming months, although immediate breakthroughs seem unlikely. Nonetheless, the mere existence of these discussions indicates a growing political willingness to tackle this contentious issue.
Earlier this month, EU leaders adopted a more stringent approach to migration management and tasked the Commission with exploring outsourcing projects and reviewing the concept of “safe third countries” to expedite deportations. The summit in Brussels highlighted Syria as a key agenda item, with leaders reaffirming the need to create conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Syrian refugees, as outlined by the UNHCR.
In July, Italy and Austria spearheaded a joint letter from eight member states advocating for a new, more active EU strategy on Syria. The European External Action Service (EEAS) has indicated it is considering appointing a special envoy for Syria, a key demand from Italy.
Since 2011, the EU and its member states have committed over €30 billion in humanitarian and development aid to support Syrians both within the country and in the surrounding region.