Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees announced a freeze on Syrian asylum applications, citing Syria’s uncertain political future. Local media reported the decision on Monday, with a spokesperson confirming that the situation required reassessment.
The freeze impacts 47,270 asylum applications in Germany, though previously resolved cases remain unaffected. Similarly, Austria’s Interior Ministry confirmed it has also paused Syrian asylum applications, affecting 7,300 cases.
Refugees Begin Returning After Assad’s Fall
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011 amid Arab Spring protests, displaced 14 million people, including one million who sought refuge in Germany.
The collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime came after Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) forces seized significant territory and declared victory in Damascus. This marked the end of Assad’s dynastic rule.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz welcomed the development, stating on Sunday that the end of Assad’s rule was “good news for now.” Scholz stressed the importance of restoring law, order, and dignity for all Syrians.
“We will judge the new rulers by whether they ensure dignity, sovereignty, and peace for all Syrians,” Scholz said.