Almost ten years later of the reception crisis that has brought the european Union to the limit,the fall of <a href="https://time.news/worrying-signs-indicate-that-isis-is-growing-stronger-in-syria/" title="“Worrying signs” indicate that “ISIS is growing stronger” in Syria“>Bashar al-Assad A new phase is opening for Syria,and also for the thousands of refugees who fled to Europe before the outbreak of the war,but the Commission believes that it is too early to talk about forced repatriations.
“At the moment I would say that the forced repatriations “They are not possible,” he said. Magnus Brunner, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration,after his first meeting with the ministers in office,”it is indeed significant to follow the advice UNHCR(acronym for UN High Commissioner for Refugees). Brunner assured that the Commission will move forward up close the situation on the ground, particularly in the borders.
EU interior ministers discussed the issue during a meeting working lunch in Brussels. According to diplomatic sources, the main message is Attention. We must closely follow the evolution of the situation in the country, evaluate it and, above all, not take hasty decisions on returns. A vision that shares most countries and also the Commission.
“At the moment the situation is calm volatile. There are,let’s say,opportunities,but also risksBrummer explained. “Even though the transfer of power was Calmwe certainly know little about address and the strategy of new actors“, acknowledged the commissioner. The situation in Syria will also be on the table on Monday when EU foreign ministers meet in Brussels.
Yes to voluntary repatriations
Although Brunner acknowledged that he had no data on how many people intend to return or have returned to Syria, he assured that several ministers said they were aware many cases of people who are thinking of returning. “Some talk about two, others about 200,” said the commissioner, according to whom the images of people celebrating the fall of Assad in european capitals do so “optimistic”.
The volatility of the situation, though, makes Brunner believe this is the case ready draw conclusions about the future of Syrians living on European territory, even though he believes that the focus should now be on voluntary returns“this could be attractive to many Syrians.” A meeting of the 27 will take place on Friday at technical level in which the Commission, the Foreign Action Service and UNHCR representatives to continue to assess the situation and coordinate a possible response.
In 2015, more than a million of people came to Europe asylum seeker. The majority, Syrians. The gravity of the situation in the country, the open-door policy adopted by Germany at that time and the lack thereof border controlsforced thousands of people to risk their lives to seek refuge. Almost ten years later,the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime opens a new era,for Syria and,predictably,for Europe.
After the fall of Assad, austria, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Sweden, Greece or Germanywhere a significant part of the diaspora resides, has decided to suspend ongoing asylum applications from Syrian citizens. A measure that the European Commission did not take into consideration.
What are the main challenges the european Union is facing regarding the integration of Syrian refugees?
Interview between Time.news Editor and magnus Brunner, European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration
Editor: Welcome, Commissioner Brunner! it’s a pleasure to have you here with us at Time.news. The situation in Syria has been a pressing issue for nearly a decade now. With the recent developments regarding Bashar al-Assad, there’s talk about a new phase for Syria and its refugees. Can you elaborate on your perspective on this situation?
Brunner: Thank you for having me. Yes, it’s a critical moment for Syria. We’re witnessing potential changes that coudl impact the future of the country and the millions affected by the conflict. However, while there might be discussions about repatriation, I firmly believe we must approach this situation with caution.
Editor: you mentioned caution regarding forced repatriations. What are some specific reasons the European Commission feels it’s too early to consider such measures?
Brunner: First and foremost, the safety of the returnees must be our primary concern.Although there are signs that the situation could be stabilizing, many parts of Syria remain dangerous and unstable. Forced repatriations, under these circumstances, could put lives at risk and lead to further humanitarian crises. we need to follow the advice of experts on the ground and ensure that any returns are voluntary and safe.
Editor: That makes sense. The European Union has faced significant challenges with the influx of refugees.With all that’s happened over the past ten years, how does the EU plan to address the long-term needs of these refugees still residing in Europe?
Brunner: The EU’s commitment to supporting refugees extends beyond the immediate response. We are working on various programs to assist integration, provide legal avenues for residency, and promote social cohesion. It’s crucial that we don’t just look at immediate solutions, but also at building pathways that enable refugees to contribute positively to their host communities.
Editor: Many of our readers are concerned about how the political situation in Syria could impact the future of the EU’s refugee policies. Could you give us insight into what might be expected in the coming months?
Brunner: Certainly. While the situation is fluid, our priority remains the welfare of the refugees. We will be closely monitoring developments in Syria and consulting with international partners to ensure any changes align with human rights and humanitarian laws. A reactive, rather than proactive, approach is what we want to avoid. Moreover,any discussion on repatriation will always center around safety and human dignity.
editor: As we look ahead, what steps do you believe the international community should take to support refugees and the rebuilding of Syria?
Brunner: Collaboration is key. It’s vital for the international community to engage in coordinated efforts that address not only immediate humanitarian aid but also long-term strategies for rebuilding Syria.Supporting local governance, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring sustained humanitarian access are all crucial elements. Only through solidarity can we hope to mend the longstanding wounds of the conflict.
Editor: Thank you, Commissioner Brunner, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s evident that while there are challenges ahead,a commitment to safety and dignity for refugees can pave the way for a more hopeful future.
Brunner: Thank you for having me! It’s essential that we continue these discussions and keep the focus on human rights and dignity as we navigate these complex challenges.