German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has outlined an ambitious plan for the large-scale return of Syrian refugees, stating that roughly 80% of the more than 900,000 Syrians currently living in Germany should return to their homeland within the next three years. The announcement came during a high-profile meeting with Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Berlin, marking the Syrian leader's first official visit to the West since taking power.
The proposal represents a significant shift in Germany's approach to Syrian refugees, who arrived in large numbers during the 2015-2016 European migration crisis under former Chancellor Angela Merkel's leadership. Many of these refugees have since integrated into German society, with some obtaining German citizenship, making the repatriation timeline particularly ambitious.
That was also the wish of President Sharaa. Those Syrians who wish to remain in Germany and are well integrated will be able to stay in Germany.
Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor — Daily Sabah
The German government plans to prioritize the return of specific groups, particularly those without valid residence permits and individuals with criminal records. Merz emphasized that approximately 10,000 Syrians currently lack proper documentation, representing about 1% of the total Syrian population in Germany. The chancellor has called for the urgent repatriation of what he termed the "problematic group" of Syrians with criminal backgrounds.
To support the repatriation effort and Syria's reconstruction, Germany has committed over 200 million euros this year for stabilization efforts. The government is establishing a task force dedicated to coordinating reconstruction support, viewing returning Syrians as valuable contributors to rebuilding their homeland with skills and experiences gained during their time in Germany.