EU Focuses on Voluntary Return of Syrian Refugees Amid Ongoing Safety Concerns

The European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, stated that EU member states are not yet prepared to conduct collective repatriation operations for Syrians, clarifying that Syria is not classified as a safe country of origin under EU regulations. This classification hinders any comprehensive decisions regarding refugee returns.

Focus on Voluntary, Non-Forced Returns

In an interview with the German news agency (dpa), Brunner emphasized that the EU's current policy is centered on encouraging the voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their war-torn homeland, explicitly excluding individuals convicted of serious crimes from this initiative.

Gradual Improvements Lacking Overall Stability

Despite this cautious stance, the European official noted that the EU Asylum Agency has reported gradual improvements in the situation in Syria. However, these improvements are not yet sufficient to warrant claims of overall stability or safety that would justify large-scale returns.

Frontex's Role in Supporting Voluntary Returns

In this context, Brunner clarified that the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) has provided logistical support for the voluntary return of thousands of Syrians, as part of organized programs aimed at ensuring safe and dignified repatriation without coercive measures.

Ongoing Monitoring of Developments

Observers indicate that the issue of Syrian refugee returns will remain closely tied to political and security developments within Syria, as well as the state of reconstruction and the availability of essential services—factors the EU considers critical before any significant changes to its current policies.