Chancellor supports well-integrated Syrian refugees staying in Germany

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has stated that well-integrated Syrian refugees are welcome to remain in Germany.

This message was made despite calls from far-right and conservative politicians for their return following the potential overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.  

 "Those who work here, who are well integrated, remain welcome in Germany. That's obvious," the social-democrat leader said in a post on X, noting that some declarations these past days have deeply destabilised our fellow citizens of Syrian origin.

Around one million Syrians reside in Germany, with the majority arriving during the 2015 migration crisis, which was triggered by the civil war in Syria that began in 2011. While some have gained German citizenship, most have not, making them more susceptible to deportation. 

Germany, along with other European nations like Austria and Sweden, announced a suspension of new asylum applications from Syrians, just a day after the fall of Assad's government. In addition, Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, declared that Germany's borders are closed, and we will not accept any more refugees.

The AfD saw a significant surge in popularity due to concerns surrounding the rapid influx of migrants. The party is expected to finish second in the upcoming February elections, where Weidel is vying for the chancellorship. 

The centre-right CDU party, which is currently leading in the polls, has also advocated for the return of Syrian refugees to their home country.   CDU MP Jens Spahn proposed that Berlin organize charter flights to Syria and offer 1,000 euros ($1,057) to anyone who wishes to return.

By Naila Huseynova