German Chancellor and EPP Chairman support return of Syrian refugees

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and European People’s Party Chairman Manfred Weber Support Return of Syrian Refugees

On November 9, 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Manfred Weber, the Chairman of the European People’s Party (EPP), expressed their support for the return of Syrian refugees to their home country, Syria. This announcement comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding immigration policies in Germany and the status of refugees who have settled in the country since the onset of the Syrian civil war.

Key Details

The proposal to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees is significant, particularly as a large number of these individuals have either obtained German citizenship or are eligible for it. Most Syrian refugees arrived in Germany between 2014 and 2016, a period marked by a substantial influx of migrants fleeing conflict and persecution in their home country. The German citizenship process requires that a foreigner must reside in Germany for at least five years and demonstrate a B1 level proficiency in the German language, which is considered a moderate level of fluency.

As of the latest reports, many Syrian refugees have successfully navigated this process and secured their citizenship cards. However, the push from the German establishment and centrist political factions to deport these refugees raises complex legal and ethical questions. International and European legislation generally prohibits the deportation and denaturalization of individuals who have been granted citizenship, complicating the potential implementation of such a policy.

Background

Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, millions of Syrians have sought refuge in various countries, with Germany being one of the primary destinations. The German government, under the leadership of former Chancellor Angela Merkel, adopted an open-door policy during the peak of the refugee crisis, which allowed a significant number of Syrians to enter the country. This policy was met with both support and opposition within Germany, leading to ongoing debates about immigration, integration, and national security.

The citizenship process in Germany is designed to encourage integration and ensure that new citizens can contribute to society. The requirement for a minimum residency period and language proficiency reflects the country’s emphasis on cultural assimilation and social cohesion. However, the recent statements from Merz and Weber suggest a shift in the political landscape regarding refugee policies, particularly as the political climate in Europe continues to evolve.

What"s Next

The implications of this proposal are significant for the future of Syrian refugees in Germany. If the government moves forward with plans to facilitate the return of refugees, it could lead to legal challenges based on existing international laws that protect the rights of citizens. Additionally, the situation may provoke public outcry and further political debate, as many citizens and advocacy groups support the rights of refugees and their ability to remain in Germany.

As the situation develops, it will be essential to monitor the responses from both the refugee community and the broader German public. The ongoing discussions surrounding immigration policy in Germany are reflective of similar situations in other European countries, where governments are grappling with the challenges of integrating large numbers of refugees while addressing domestic concerns about security and social services. For further insights into related developments, see our previous reports on immigration and policy changes across Europe.