Opinion piece by our migration expert
A Dangerous Distortion: The Debate on the Return of Syrian Refugees
No sooner had the Assad regime been overthrown than German politicians began debating the return of Syrian refugees. Instead of starting populist debates, Germany should develop a constructive vision for the future, argues our migration expert Raphaela Schweiger – and outlines what this might look like.
The scenes of celebration —both in Syria and among Syrians living in Germany— were powerful. The regime’s collapse has understandably inspired a sense of hope for a fresh start. For the first time in over a decade, a brighter future for Syria seems possible. However, how this chapter unfolds remains uncertain. Years of war have left deep scars, and rebuilding the country will take years or even decades. Political stability, accountability for atrocities, and sustainable economic opportunities are far from guaranteed at this point.
Despite these uncertainties, discussions of mass return gained immediate traction in Germany. Proposals ranging from financial incentives to chartered flights and even a ‘return conference' were put on the table. The German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees suspended the processing of new asylum claims — a move that is concerning the Syrian community. These discussions seem to reflect domestic political posturing rather than the realities on the ground in Syria. As Germany enters its electoral season, the refugee debate is being exploited to signal strength. But in doing so, policymakers risk overlooking the tremendous progress achieved by Syrians in Germany — and the harm such rhetoric can cause.
Germany’s Distinct Role
Germany hosts the largest Syrian community in Europe, with nearly one million people who have sought refuge since 2015. Globally, only Turkey, with 3.1 million Syrian refugees and crisis-stricken Lebanon, surpass Germany in numbers, while other nations like Jordan and Iraq too host hundreds of thousands.
The contributions of Syrians in Germany are remarkable. Approximately 210,000 are employed in positions subject to social insurance contributions. Over 250,000 children and youth attend German schools, and 160,000 Syrians have already obtained German citizenship. These numbers not only demonstrate successful integration but also highlight the immense potential of this community. Syrians in Germany are contributing to the country’s economy and society while acquiring skills and building networks that could be pivotal in the eventual rebuilding of Syria.
The Mediendienst Integration (media service on integration), which we support, regularly publishes dossiers and expert reports on migration and integration in Germany – including on Syrian refugees.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Return should not be viewed as a one-way, irreversible process. For many Syrians, Germany has become home, yet, if stability were to return to Syria, a dual connection between the two countries could emerge. Syrians could build business ties, visit their home country, and return to Germany. Such bridges could foster cultural and economic ties that are of benefit to both countries.
The concept of circular mobility offers significant opportunities: enabling people to invest in their homeland while maintaining their connection to Germany. Examples from other contexts, such as labor migration, demonstrate how these models can work effectively, fostering exchange, growth, and stability for both countries involved. Syrians in Germany could play a vital role in this process, becoming bridge-builders between their homeland and their adopted country.
Misplaced Priorities in the Debate
The return of refugees is a highly complex issue, both legally and diplomatically. It demands a long-term, realistic, and carefully considered strategy. Calls for return that ignore critical safety and infrastructure concerns jeopardize not only the lives of returnees but also the credibility of political institutions. Such debates must not be driven by populist agendas.
A Call for Vision and Responsibility
Germany has proven to be a leader in providing protection and fostering successful integration. Now, the country has the opportunity to take on an even greater role — not only as a refuge but also as a global model for foresight, respect, and solidarity.
This requires courage, a long-term perspective, and a willingness to look beyond short-term political gains. Empowering Syrians in Germany and strengthening their participation in society must remain central. Return should only be considered when it is safe, voluntary, and sustainable.
Rather than perpetuating populist return debates, we must develop a forward-looking vision—one that embraces innovative models for circular mobility, reconstruction strategies, and bridge-building between communities in Germany and Syria. In doing so, Germany can fulfill its responsibility and remain a reliable partner for the region.