Germany Begins Deporting Convicted Syrians Amid Policy Shift

Following the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, Germany has initiated the process of deporting Syrian refugees convicted of crimes, aligning with similar actions taken by Austria. The German Interior Ministry has directed the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees to revoke protection status for dangerous Syrian individuals and criminals, marking a significant policy shift as the country reassesses asylum protections. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government, in coalition with the Social Democrats, agreed to begin deportations starting with delinquents and those considered threats, referencing statistics that show a disproportionate number of violent crimes committed by Syrians and other foreign nationals. Germany currently hosts nearly one million Syrians, many granted asylum during the 2015 migration crisis, but with the civil war now considered over, officials argue it is fair and consistent with international refugee protections to repatriate those whose protection status has ended. This move has been supported by some politicians who believe that refugees should return home once dangers subside, while right-wing parties push for broader deportations beyond just criminals. The policy shift reflects a broader European trend of tightening asylum policies and re-evaluating migrant protection in light of changing circumstances in Syria.