return and Hesitation: Syrians in Europe assess Life Back Home One Year After al-assad’s Fall
One year after the fall of Bashar al-Assad‘s government, Syrians who sought refuge in europe are increasingly facing a complex decision: return home, or remain abroad as host countries reassess refugee status. While some Syrians are optimistic about rebuilding opportunities, meaningful concerns remain regarding safety, public services, and personal freedoms.
The prospect of returning isn’t universally welcomed within Syria itself. according to researcher Todman, many Syrians express reservations about the immediate return of refugees, citing already overburdened public services and a critical housing shortage.
For those considering repatriation,safety concerns are paramount. The post-Assad period has been marked by outbreaks of violence targeting minority groups.in March, clashes in the Alawite neighborhoods of Latakia province resulted in over 1600 civilian deaths, with Alawite groups alleging attacks by government-affiliated Sunni forces. Similar deadly clashes erupted in July in the Druze-majority province of suweyda, resulting in 1,200 reported fatalities. Despite promises from President al-Sharaa to hold perpetrators accountable, both Alawite and Druze leaders have expressed skepticism.
These events have demonstrably impacted return patterns.Todman notes a heightened nervousness among minorities about returning, and a significant outflow of Alawites to Lebanon following the change in government. Writer and activist Ali Deeb, originally from the alawite minority, expressed that while shocking, the violence wasn’t entirely surprising, stating, “It is very arduous for a dictator like bashar Al-Assad, with all the roots he had, to fall without blood.” Deeb also voiced concerns about her personal freedoms as a woman and activist, given the past affiliations of members within the new authorities.
meanwhile, European nations are shifting their policies regarding Syrian refugees. Denmark became the first EU country to declare certain parts of Syria “safe,” prompting a wider reconsideration of refugee status across Europe. The Danish government has even begun offering Syrians up to €27,000 to encourage their return. The UK has also recently altered its refugee policy, allowing for the revocation of refugee status once a country is deemed safe. Germany, which welcomed over 1 million Syrian refugees during the war, is also hardening its stance, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz stating there are “no longer any grounds for asylum” and suggesting repatriations could begin.
Despite these policy shifts and ongoing concerns, some Syrians are choosing to return. Entrepreneur Mufdi, based in Damascus, expresses optimism about the rebuilding process and the opportunities available. He highlights the authorities’ openness to returning Syrians seeking to establish businesses, claiming direct access to ministers and streamlined support. He encourages other refugees to return, believing Syrians have a responsibility to participate in rebuilding their country, stating, “You can’t just leave the country for someone else to fix.” He also notes the lifting of sanctions and an international charm offensive are creating a more favorable surroundings for investment and advancement.