InfoMigrants

A decade ago, Germany opened its borders to those fleeing the Syrian war. Now, Chancellor Merz says Syria is safe enough for people to return to. But many are hesitant to leave the country they have come to call home.

Around one million Syrians live in Germany today, most with secure residency. Only a few face deportation, while voluntary returns are rare. Many Syrians are vital to the labor market: nearly half of working-age Syrians are employed, and integration rates keep rising. Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans a "Work and Stay" agency to separate asylum from job integration. Meanwhile, fewer Syrians arrive — and more are leaving — since the civil war ended.

Author: Theresa Tropper

First published: November 17, 2025

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Source: dw.com

InfoMigrants

Many Syrians in Germany reluctant to return to home country

A decade ago, Germany opened its borders to those fleeing the Syrian war. Now, Chancellor Merz says Syria is safe enough for people to return to. But many are hesitant to leave the country they have come to call home.