Mary Khan, an MEP from Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), has announced plans to introduce a resolution in the European Parliament calling for EU assistance to repatriate Syrian migrants.
With the Assad regime toppled by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) jihadist group, Khan argues it’s time for Syrians who no longer qualify for asylum to return home.
“Many Syrians cited the Assad regime as their reason for seeking asylum. Now that it’s fallen, the EU should help member states repatriate these nationals,” Khan stated in her motion.
This push comes as EU countries, including Austria, suspend asylum procedures for Syrians, preparing deportation plans for thousands. Since 2013, Syrians have made up the largest group of asylum seekers in the EU. Last year alone, 183,035 Syrians applied for asylum—a sharp increase from 2022’s 131,790.
Khan’s resolution highlights the significant financial, social, and cultural toll migration has placed on member states. She noted, “There’s a growing demand from European citizens for stricter migration policies. The European Commission must step up and assist in returning Syrians home.”
Germany, hosting around one million Syrians, faces heightened public concern following a surge in crimes involving Syrian and Afghan migrants. Official statistics reveal nearly 35,000 Syrian criminal suspects in 2023, up 21% from 2022. Crimes range from sexual and violent offenses to theft and drug-related charges.
Khan pointed out, “Most Syrians in Germany depend on social benefits, and a significant number are linked to rising crime rates. With the Assad regime no longer a threat, Syrians can return to their ‘liberated’ homeland and rebuild their future there.”
AfD’s recent electoral gains reflect growing public frustration with Germany’s immigration policies. Khan’s resolution underscores a demand for the EU to take responsibility for its open-door approach to migration, urging it to assist member states in addressing the fallout and facilitating repatriation.
“Europe must help fix the consequences of its past mistakes,” Khan declared. “It’s time for Syrians to go home and for Europe to prioritize its own stability and security.”
