EU members discuss voluntary return of refugees to Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – European Union members held on Wednesday discussions about encouraging Syrian refugees to voluntarily return to Syria.
The talks, led by Hungary, which is currently presiding over the EU Council, were based on a document from the European Commission, according to several diplomats.
The document highlighted the importance of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in aiding Syrian refugees who wish to return to Syria, which the EU aims to enhance.
Any returns of refugees will be voluntary as the EU cannot force Syrians to leave since they typically receive asylum. Furthermore, the principle of non-refoulement prohibits sending immigrants back to countries where they might be persecuted, tortured, or mistreated.
Additionally, ambassadors discussed the lack of diplomatic relations with the Syrian government led by Bashar al-Assad, who has urged citizens to return to Syria.
They also highlighted the tense situation in the Middle East, where conflicts between Israel and Lebanon have caused tens of thousands of people to move into Syria.
The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011, forced millions to flee their homes and seek safety in nearby countries, with many ultimately traveling to Europe.
According to UNHCR, over one million Syrian asylum seekers and refugees live in Europe, with 59 percent residing in Germany. Other countries with notable Syrian populations include Sweden, Austria, Greece, the Netherlands, and France.