In a statement reflecting Germany’s firm stance, the country’s foreign minister has cautioned individuals associated with the ousted Syrian government against seeking asylum in Germany, emphasizing that they will be met with “the full force of the law.”
Germany has served as a significant haven for Syrian refugees over the last ten years, with several hundred thousand Syrian individuals currently residing in the country. Since 2021, various ex-officers of the former Syrian secret police have been sentenced in German courts for their roles in the mistreatment of detainees.
In an interview with Bild am Sonntag, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made it clear that any former members of President Bashar Assad’s regime contemplating fleeing to Germany should reconsider. She stated, “We will hold all the regime’s accomplices accountable for their heinous acts using the full extent of the law.” Baerbock urged for closer collaboration between international security agencies and intelligence services to address this issue.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser echoed Baerbock’s sentiments, expressing that Germany remains “extremely vigilant” and highlighting existing border checks aimed at curbing irregular migration. She reiterated to Bild am Sonntag that “no one involved in atrocities is safe from prosecution here,” indicating that prior convictions serve as a strong message that Germany is committed to tackling such crimes forcefully.
On a broader note, German officials have reassured well-integrated recent arrivals that they will be welcomed to stay in the event of Assad’s removal. This notion, however, led to some concerns about the potential return of Syrians, which Chancellor Olaf Scholz recognized in a video released on Friday. He acknowledged that this prospect “deeply unsettled” some refugees.
Scholz stated, “Anyone who is working here, who is well-integrated, is and shall remain welcome in Germany,” asserting that this should be taken for granted. He added that while some refugees are eager to return to their homeland, Germany will support their return when conditions permit. However, he noted that “only the upcoming days, weeks, and months will reveal the future path of Syria after Assad.”
