Asylum - Numerous Revocation Procedures Since the End of the Assad Regime

Since the fall of the Assad regime in Syria in December, around 2,400 revocation procedures have been initiated, according to the Ministry of the Interior. At that time, the responsible minister, Gerhard Karner (ÖVP), announced a repatriation and deportation program and a suspension of asylum decisions for Syrians. Since then, the applications have decreased, it was said on Friday: In January 2025, there were 55 percent fewer asylum applications from Syrians than in January 2024.

Decrease in Asylum Applications from Syrians

In total, 618 Syrian citizens applied for asylum in Austria in January, compared to 1,393 in the same month in 2024, according to a press release. If they currently submit an application, it is registered but not processed. Nearly 80 Syrians have voluntarily left Austria. Additionally, the Federal Care and Support Agency (BBU) has conducted around 440 counseling sessions with Syrians to support them in organizing their return. If they leave voluntarily, Syrians receive up to 1,000 euros, but with permanent return, the protection status is revoked.

"Syria Needs Its Citizens"

Ongoing asylum procedures for Syrian citizens would also continue to be suspended, according to Karner. "Syria now needs its citizens to be rebuilt." He insisted that asylum is only temporary protection, which cannot be granted if there are no reasons for it. NGOs such as Caritas and Diakonie criticized Karner's approach after the fall of the Assad regime, citing the unclear situation in Syria.

A voluntary return of refugees is the most cost-effective for taxpayers and is therefore being promoted, according to the Ministry of the Interior. In preparing for forced deportations, criminal individuals and those "who do not want to integrate and work" have priority.

(APA/Red)

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